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Red-flag check: is this a scam?

Tick anything that matches. Nothing you tick is saved or sent anywhere; the check runs only on this page.

This tool cannot prove something is safe. It only tells you if what you describe matches warning signs that official sources list for common scams.

Does any of this match?They say they are from the government (Social Security, IRS, FTC, Medicare, police, court) and threaten arrest, or say my benefits or Social Security number will be suspended.A pop-up, call or text says my computer is infected or my account was hacked and tells me to call a number or let someone connect to my computer.Someone says my account is hacked or my money is at risk and tells me to move, withdraw or transfer it (cash, gold, Bitcoin ATM, new "safe" account).Someone says a grandchild or relative is in jail, hurt or in trouble and needs money right away, or asks me to keep it secret.Someone I met online (never in person) asks for money, or wants me to invest in cryptocurrency or a trading platform.A text says I owe tolls, a package needs action, a product was recalled, or there is a problem with my account, and has a link.Someone says they are from Medicare and asks for my Medicare number, bank or card number, or says I need a new card or a medical equipment claim.They told me to pay or "fix it" with gift cards, cryptocurrency or a Bitcoin ATM, a wire, a payment app, cash in the mail, or cash or gold handed to someone.I'm told I won a prize or lottery, or will receive an inheritance from someone I don't know, but I must pay fees or taxes first.They told me to keep it secret, or not to tell my bank or family.They asked me for a verification code, password, or to let them connect to my computer.The message came out of the blue and pressures me to act right now.

This check needs JavaScript. Without it: if anyone you did not contact asks for money, gift cards, crypto, wire transfers, cash, a verification code, or personal information, treat it as a scam and read the scam guides.

Three rules that cover most scams

Slow down. Scammers want you rushed. The FTC says to slow down and talk with someone you trust.
Verify on your own. Hang up and call the bank or agency using a number you know is real, never the one the caller or message gave you.
No gift cards, crypto, wires, or cash for "fixes". Real businesses and government agencies do not ask for these.

Sources

Last verified: October 17, 2026. We link to the original public pages. Hotline hours and agency advice can change; check the linked page.

False alarm, real scam: how scammers are stealing older adults' life savings (FTC Data Spotlight; Aug 2025)
Bitcoin ATMs: A payment portal for scammers (FTC Data Spotlight; Sep 2024)
Elder Fraud tri-fold (2025 data) (FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3); 2026)

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