Topic
Email: scams and fixes
By Brennan Decker. Last reviewed . Every fact links to its source.
The short answer
Phishing emails and how to check any message. Pick the one that matches what you got. Each page shows how to check it and what to do if you already responded.
Pages in Email
- Is this a scam?The 4 warning signs, and a 60-second way to check any text, call, or email.
- I clicked a scam link. What now?Calm steps for the next 10 minutes, based on what you did after you clicked.
- Verification code and account recovery scamsNever share a code. How to get a hacked account back, and avoid fake 'recovery' help.
- Fake Microsoft or Apple virus warning pop-upsA pop-up says call this number now? Real warnings never do. Here's how to close it.
Other topics
- TextsScam texts about tolls, packages, elections, and more.
- CallsCalls from fake agencies, fake grandkids, and fake Medicare.
- ShoppingFake stores and fake delivery messages.
- Money and banksGift cards, payment requests, and getting money back.
- Accounts and passwordsCodes, hacked accounts, and what to do after a click.
- Credit and identityCredit freezes, data breaches, and identity theft.
- Older adultsScams that often target older people and their families.
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