ScamSkeptic

Learn to recognize common scams and what to do to protect yourself. ScamSkeptic teaches a simple rule that can stop most scams: pause and verify before you respond. Scammers use urgency, fear, and tempting offers to push people into acting quickly. This app helps you recognize those warning signs so you can step back and verify requests safely. Understand How Scams Work Learn the tactics used in: • Phone scams pretending to be banks, government agencies, or tech support • Text message scams asking you to click suspicious links • Email phishing designed to steal passwords or financial information • Impersonation scams pretending to be companies or people you trust The PAUSE Principle ScamSkeptic centers on a simple habit: Pause before responding. Verify using trusted contact information. If someone asks you to click a link, call a number, or provide sensitive information, stop and verify using a number you already trust—like the one on your bank card or official website. Short Lessons You Can Complete Quickly The app uses concise lessons to help you remember the red flags scammers rely on: • Urgent messages demanding immediate action • Requests for personal or financial information • Threats of penalties or account problems • Unexpected prizes, refunds, or benefits • Links or phone numbers you didn’t verify yourself Why People Use ScamSkeptic • Clear guidance for recognizing scams • Simple lessons designed for everyday situations • Helps build habits that protect you from fraud • No complicated tools or technical knowledge required Scammers depend on people reacting quickly. ScamSkeptic helps you slow down, recognize the warning signs, and stay in control. Note from the author: I've had the benefit of working for companies that provide training to their employees on how to spot fraud and protect against it. My parents have not had that. Nor most of my friends. My mother-in-law almost lost $5000 to someone claiming to be her grandson in trouble. Thankfully a banker stopped her at the branch. I'm hoping that a simple way for people to be exposed to the tricks out there will be beneficial and hopefully keep someone else's grandmother from being robbed!