Scam guide
Common scam calls, in plain words
The same 10 lessons your parent reads in the FamilyDefender app. Share them with anyone who answers the phone.
Three rules
Real agencies never ask for gift cards, crypto or cash.
Never read out codes, card or Social Security numbers.
In doubt? Hang up and call back on a number you know.
The 10 most common scam calls
A grandchild in trouble
«Grandma, it’s me. I’m in jail, please don’t tell Mom. Can you send bail money?»
«Your Social Security number is suspended»
«This is the Social Security Administration. Your number was used in a crime and is suspended.»
«You owe the IRS»
«You owe back taxes. Pay today with gift cards or you will be arrested.»
«There is a warrant for your arrest»
«This is the sheriff’s office. You missed jury duty. Pay the fine now and tell no one.»
Your bank’s «fraud department»
«We see a suspicious charge. To stop it, read me the code we just texted you.»
«Move your money to keep it safe»
«Your account is hacked. Move your savings to a safe account, or withdraw cash for a courier.»
«Your computer has a virus»
«This is computer support. Your computer is infected. Let me connect to fix it.»
«A suspicious order on your account»
«Someone bought a $900 phone on your account. Press 1 to cancel.»
«You won a prize»
«Congratulations, you won $50,000! Just pay the taxes and fees first.»
«Read me the code to prove it’s you»
«We’ll text you a 6-digit code, just read it back to me.»