Protect Yourself with Scam Guard: Block Scammers and Spam Calls

Recognizing Phone Scams--- Phone scammers often impersonate trusted entities like banks, government agencies, or tech support to extract money, personal info, or access to your devices. Common signs include unsolicited calls demanding immediate action, threats of arrest/legal action, requests for gift cards/wire transfers, or urgent tech fixes. Remember: legitimate organizations rarely ask for sensitive details over the phone. Immediate Actions During a Suspicious Call **Don't engage**: Hang up immediately. Scammers thrive on conversation—engaging gives them info or time to manipulate. **Verify independently**: If it's supposedly from a bank or agency, call back using a number from their official website, not the one provided by the caller. **Avoid sharing info**: Never give out Social Security numbers, bank details, passwords, or verification codes. Legit callers won't ask. Preventive Measures Protect yourself proactively with these steps: Strategy. How to Implement. Why It Works. **Register on Do Not Call lists** In the US, add your number to the FTC's Do Not Call Registry at donotcall.gov. Reduces legitimate telemarketing calls, making scams easier to spot. **Use call-blocking apps** Install apps like Scam Blocker, or carrier tools (e.g., AT&T Call Protect). Enable built-in features on iOS/Android for spam detection. Automatically filters known scam numbers and flags suspicious ones. **Secure your voicemail** Set a PIN for voicemail access and avoid generic greetings that reveal your name/schedule. Prevents "voicemail hacking" where scammers call back to listen in. **Freeze your credit** Contact Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion to freeze your credit file for free. Stops scammers from opening accounts in your name if they steal your info. ### What to Do If You've Been Targeted **Report it**: In the US, file with the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov or FCC at fcc.gov/complaints. Globally, use local consumer protection agencies (e.g., Canada's Anti-Fraud Centre). **Monitor accounts**: Check bank/credit statements for unauthorized activity and change passwords if needed. By staying vigilant and using tech tools, you can drastically reduce risks—most scams succeed on impulse, so pause and verify every time. If something feels off, trust your gut.