A Quick Scam Survival Guide: Stop, Think, and Protect

In a world where digital tricksters lurk around every corner, staying savvy about scams isn’t just wise—it’s essential. Whether it’s a suspicious email, a dodgy text message, or a shady phone call, the old adage “better safe than sorry” has never been more relevant. Here’s a no-nonsense guide to navigating these murky waters with confidence.

Stop: Slow Down and Breathe

First things first—hit pause. Scammers are experts at creating a false sense of urgency. They want you to act impulsively, to hand over your hard-earned cash or personal information before you can say, “Hang on a sec.” The truth is, you always have time to verify. If something feels off, you’re not obliged to jump at their command. Hang up, delete the message, and take a deep breath.

Think: Question Everything

Ask yourself, “Could this be a scam?” It’s a simple yet powerful question. Scammers often impersonate trusted figures, from your bank to celebrities, to lull you into a false sense of security. Before you share any information, take a moment to verify the identity of the person or organisation contacting you. A quick call to a known number or a direct visit to the official website can save you a world of trouble.

Protect: Act Swiftly

If you suspect you’ve been targeted or have inadvertently shared sensitive information, don’t sit around hoping for the best. Contact your financial institution—Coastline, in this case—immediately. They’re equipped to handle these situations and can help mitigate potential damage. Additionally, your vigilance can help others; report any scams you encounter to Scamwatch to prevent others from falling prey to the same deceit.

Did You Know?

In today’s scam landscape, text messages (SMS) are the most common method of attack, followed closely by emails. Despite the increasing sophistication of scams, they often reveal themselves through telltale red flags. So, how can you sharpen your scam radar?

• Spot the Suspicious Links: If a message contains a link urging you to log in to a government service like myGov, be wary. Legitimate organisations will never request sensitive information via text or email.
• Beware of Urgent Requests: Scammers thrive on urgency. Be extra cautious of any communication demanding immediate personal or financial details. Remember, Coastline and other reputable organisations will never ask for passwords or sensitive information through unsolicited messages.
• Avoid Clicking Unsolicited Attachments: An unexpected attachment is a red flag. These could harbour malware or phishing attempts.
• Monitor Your Accounts: Regularly check for unusual transactions or interactions. If something seems out of place, investigate it promptly.

Even with all the right precautions, your intuition is a powerful tool. If something feels wrong, trust that gut feeling. Scammers often rely on psychological tricks to bypass our logical defences, but your instincts can often pick up on subtle inconsistencies that don’t add up. Whether it’s a feeling of discomfort or a nagging doubt, don’t ignore it. Take extra steps to verify and protect yourself.

In a digital age where scams are as common as kangaroo sightings, staying alert and informed is your best defence. By following these steps—Stop, Think, Protect—you can navigate the treacherous waters of online fraud with a clear head and a secure heart. Stay sharp, stay safe!