1. What does “out-of-band verification” mean?
Answer: Confirming through a separate channel you already trust. A separate channel is one the attacker doesn’t control.
2. The three biggest scam red flags together:
Answer: Urgency, secrecy and a payment request. Scammers rush you, isolate you and ask for money.
3. How long should you pause before acting on an urgent request?
Answer: Long enough to verify it. Scams rely on rushing. A few minutes to check breaks the spell.
4. Which contact is more reliable to verify?
Answer: A number from the official website or your card. Numbers in messages may lead to the scammer.
5. True or myth: one strong signal is enough to decide something is safe.
Answer: Myth. Weigh several signals. No single check decides.
6. Before paying a new payee, you should:
Answer: Check the name matches the account. Name checks catch many redirected payments.
7. Is it okay to hang up on someone claiming to be police or your bank?
Answer: Yes — then call back on an official number. Real organisations understand. Scammers rely on politeness.
8. Should you report a scam even if you didn’t lose money?
Answer: Yes — it helps protect others. Reports help block scammers and warn others.
9. When unsure, the best move:
Answer: Ask someone you trust before acting. A second opinion breaks the isolation scammers create.
10. A family code word should be:
Answer: Something private and memorable, never posted online. Public details can be found. Choose something only you share.