Is this a scam?
Paste the text, email or WhatsApp message. The check runs on this device: the message isn't sent to us or anyone else, and you don't need an account.
Leave out your own account numbers and codes. The check never needs them.
The warning signs this checker looks for
Scam texts, emails and WhatsApp messages use the same few tricks again and again. The checker looks for each of these, and shows you the exact words that set it off.
- It asks for a PIN, password or one-time code. No real bank, company or government body needs these from you.
- It wants payment in gift cards, crypto, or a transfer to a "safe" account. Scammers ask for money that can't be taken back.
- It asks for a small fee to release a parcel, a prize, a refund or a job. That fee is the scam.
- It asks you to install an app or let someone onto your phone or computer. That gives them control of your money.
- Someone says they're family on a new number and needs money. Call them on the number you already have.
- It threatens you: arrest, a fine, a blocked account or a cut-off. Fear is used to rush you.
- It's urgent: today, tonight, within hours. Real organisations give you time.
- It's too good to be true: a prize you didn't enter, money that doubles, a job with no interview.
- It asks you to "confirm", "verify" or "update" your details. That's how they collect them.
- It asks you to keep it secret, or not to tell your bank. A real organisation never does.
- It has a link. Don't open it: go to the company's own app, or type its web address yourself.
- The link pretends to be an official site or a big company, but it isn't their real address.
What to do with a message you're not sure about
- Don't click the link, reply, or call the number in the message.
- Check for yourself: open the company's own app, or type its website address yourself.
- If it claims to be family, call them on the number you already have.
- Report it (below), then delete it.
If you've already clicked, replied or paid
- Call your bank straight away, using the number on the back of your card or in its own app, not a number from the message. The sooner they know, the more they can stop.
- If you typed in a password, change it, and switch on two-step sign-in if you can.
- If you installed an app someone asked you to, remove it, and don't let them back on.
- Report it, so others are warned. It isn't your fault: these messages are made to fool people.
Common scams, and where to report them
The scams going round, and the official places to report them, differ by country:
This check looks for common warning signs. It can miss new tricks, and it can't prove a message is genuine. General guidance, not legal or financial advice.