Spot the Scam
A text that says “You’ve won a free iPhone, click here!” is an example of what type of scam?
Spam/Phishing
Scammers often create a sense of urgency by saying you must act when?
Immediately / right now
True or False: It’s safe to reuse the same password for multiple accounts.
False
What should you do first if you get a suspicious email?
Don’t click links or download attachments.
Unwanted, mass-sent messages are called what?
Spam
True or False: A government agency will ask for payments in gift cards.
False
Flattering a victim or pretending to be a friend online is an example of what tactic?
What’s a stronger password: “dog123” or “L!f3isC00l#2025”?
L!f3isC00l#2025
Where can you forward phishing emails for investigation?
reportphishing@apwg.org or IT department
What is “phishing”?
Tricking someone into revealing personal information via fake messages.
You get an email saying your bank account is locked, but the link goes to banksecure-login.net. What’s the red flag?
Suspicious/incorrect URL
If a scammer says “If you don’t pay, something bad will happen,” what tactic is that?
Threats / Fear
Why should you avoid posting your birthday online?
It can be used to guess passwords or steal your identity.
If you receive a scam text, should you reply “STOP”? Why or why not?
No, replying confirms your number is active.
Messages that trick people into giving money are called what?
Scams
What is it called when scammers pretend to be a trusted company to steal info?
Phishing
Asking for small bits of info first (like birthday), then bigger details later, is called what?
Pretexting / gradual information gathering
What is two-factor authentication (2FA)
An extra security step requiring a code, app, or device in addition to a password.
Who should you tell if you accidentally share personal info with a scammer?
A trusted adult, teacher, IT, or the police depending on severity.
A trick that uses human psychology instead of hacking software is called what?
Social Engineering
A phone call says your computer has a virus and you must download software. What scam tactic is being used?
Tech support scam
Scammers who trick people into wiring money by impersonating bosses or relatives are using what tactic?
Authority
Which of these is safest: Public Wi-Fi, Personal Hotspot, or Home Network with WPA2 security?
Home Network with WPA2 security
What is the benefit of reporting instead of just deleting?
Reporting helps authorities track and stop scammers
Stealing someone’s personal details to pretend to be them is called what?
Identity Theft