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Prevent next time. Simple rules that work

Use this page after a scare, or anytime you want to feel safer online.
Small habits make a big difference.

Use this topic if you or someone you support wants to:
  • Reduce the chance of being caught again
  • Set up a few protections in 10 to 30 minutes
  • Know what to do when a message feels urgent or pressuring

If something is happening right now, start with:
Money at risk. What to do right now

A helpful rule

Real organisations do not rush you.
You are allowed to slow down, verify, and call back using a trusted number.

The top 5 habits

  1. Use a trusted route

    • Do not use links or phone numbers from a message.
    • Open the official app, type the website address yourself, or use a number you already trust.

  2. Never share codes or passwords

    • Do not share one time codes, PINs, or passwords. Not even with “bank staff”.

  3. Pause when you feel pressure

    • Urgency, secrecy, threats, or shame are red flags.
    • Take a breath. Ask someone you trust to look with you.

  4. Keep your email secure

    • Email is the master key for most accounts.
    • Use a strong passphrase, and turn on two factor authentication where you can.

  5. Keep devices updated

    • Updates fix security problems.
    • Turn on automatic updates if possible.
A 10-minute setup

Do what you can. One or two changes is still progress.

  • Turn on two factor authentication for email and banking.
  • Change passwords you reuse in more than one place.
  • If you can, use a password manager to create and store strong passwords.
  • Check your bank app for security options, for example:
  • Freeze card
  • Extra sign in checks
  • Alerts for payments or new payees
A simple script for calls and messages

Use these lines as a default response.

  • “I do not deal with this by phone. I will call back using my own number.”
  • “I do not click links from messages. I will check in the official app.”
  • “I do not share codes or passwords.”

Then stop contact.

Shopping and marketplace checks

Before you pay.

  • Use well known retailers where possible.
  • Be cautious of “bank transfer only”, crypto, or paying outside the platform.
  • Look for real contact details and a returns policy.
  • If the deal feels too good to be true, pause.

Then stop contact.

Social media and messaging checks
  • If a friend or family member asks for money, verify by calling them on a number you already have.
  • Be cautious of requests to move off platform.
  • Do not share one-time codes, even if the person seems genuine.

If you are still unsure

If you want to keep learning, here are the best next pages: