Scammers are getting more clever—and more convincing. But the better you understand their tactics, the better you can avoid their traps.
This quick quiz gives you five real-world scam scenarios. See how you'd respond, then check your score at the end to find out how scam-smart you really are.
Scenario 1: The Urgent Boss Email
You're at work and get an email from your boss:
"Hey, I need you to grab some gift cards for a client right away. Send me the codes once you've got them. Can't talk—heading into a meeting!"
What do you do?
A) Race to the store. Gotta keep the boss happy.
B) Reply: "Sure thing!" Then realize later it wasn't their real email.
C) Check the sender's address. It looks weird. You text your boss to confirm.
Correct Answer: C
Scammers often impersonate company leaders to create pressure. Always confirm unusual requests using a known contact method.
Scenario 2: The "Bank" Calls
Someone calls saying they're from your bank. There's been "suspicious activity," and they need your online banking login to secure your account.
What do you do?
A) Panic and give it to them. You don't want to lose your money!
B) Ask for their name and badge number, but still give your info.
C) Hang up and call your bank directly using the number on their website or your card.
Correct Answer: C
No legitimate financial institution will ask for your login credentials over the phone. Always initiate contact yourself when in doubt.
Scenario 3: The Package Problem
You get a text that says your delivery is delayed. There's a link to "reschedule." You don't remember ordering anything, but hey—maybe you forgot?
What do you do?
A) Click the link—curiosity wins.
B) Screenshot the message and ask a friend what they think.
C) Delete the message and check your actual shopping or delivery apps.
Correct Answer: C
Scammers use fake delivery texts to phish for information or install malware. Never click suspicious links—go straight to the source.
Scenario 4: The Pop-Up Panic
You're browsing online when a pop-up appears saying:
"Warning! Your computer has been infected. Call this number immediately to avoid permanent data loss."
What do you do?
A) Call the number—this looks serious.
B) Close the browser, restart your device, and run your antivirus software.
C) Screenshot the pop-up and post it online, asking if it's real.
Correct Answer: B
Fake pop-ups are designed to scare you into calling scammers who pose as "tech support." Never call numbers from random pop-ups.
Scenario 5: The Fake Friend Request
You get a new social media friend request from someone you already follow—and they start messaging you immediately.
"Hey! My old account got hacked. Can you help me out with something real quick?"
What do you do?
A) Agree to help. You don't want to be rude.
B) Ask what happened, but don't give any info.
C) Check your original friend's profile. They're still active and haven't mentioned a new account.
Correct Answer: C
Scammers create duplicate accounts to trick you into trusting them. Always confirm directly before interacting with a "new" profile.
Scam Scorecard
0–1 correct: Time for a scam-prevention refresher! Don't worry—we've got tons of resources to help you stay alert.
2–3 correct: You're halfway there. Your instincts are good, but scammers are sneaky. Keep learning and double-check everything.
4–5 correct: Scam-savvy! You're paying attention to the details, staying skeptical, and protecting your personal info like a pro.
Final Thoughts
Whether it's email, text, phone, or social media—scams are everywhere. But knowledge is your best defense. Keep your eyes open, trust your gut, and don't hesitate to pause and verify.
Know someone who could use a scam check-up? Share this quiz with them—because the best protection is preparation.