If you are given information whether by email, online, on your doorstep, social media or any other method, but you feel uneasy about it trust your instincts and check it out. When checking for a scam, it’s best to be vigilant and observant.

Here are five things to look for that can help you identify potential scams:

1. Unsolicited Contact: Were you expecting it! Scammers often initiate contact through unsolicited emails, phone calls, or messages. Be cautious of unexpected communications from individuals or organizations you don’t know or didn’t contact first.
2. Urgency and Pressure: Scammers often create a sense of urgency and pressure to push you into making quick decisions. They may claim that you have a limited time to act, offering exclusive deals or threatening negative consequences if you don’t comply immediately.
3. Requests for Personal Information or Money: Be wary of any request for sensitive personal information like passwords, Social Security numbers, or financial details through emails, phone calls, or websites. Legitimate organizations typically won’t ask for this information via email or phone.
4. Too Good to Be True Offers: If an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is. Scammers often promise unrealistic rewards, prizes, or returns on investments to entice victims into their schemes.
5. Poorly Written Communications or Impersonation: Pay attention to the quality of the communication you receive. Scammers may have spelling and grammar errors, use generic greetings, or try to impersonate legitimate companies or government agencies.

Additional tips:

• Check the Website: If you receive an email or message with a link, hover over the link (without clicking) to see the URL’s destination. Make sure it matches the claimed website. Be cautious about clicking on links from unknown sources.
• Research the Sender/Organization: Do a quick online search of the sender’s name or the organization they claim to represent. Scammers often use names that are similar to well-known companies to deceive people.
• Look for Secure Websites: If you’re asked to provide personal information or make a payment on a website, ensure it’s secure. Look for “https://” at the beginning of the URL and a padlock icon in the browser’s address bar.
• Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off or suspicious, trust your instincts. If you have doubts about a situation, it’s better to be cautious and seek advice from friends, family, or authorities.

Remember, scammers continually evolve their tactics, so staying informed and vigilant is crucial in protecting yourself from potential scams. If you suspect that you’ve encountered a scam, report it to the appropriate authorities or consumer protection agencies in your country.