Don’t Get Scammed! Digital Self‑Defense Tactics

Every day, our families scroll through messages, videos, and posts that ask us to react before we have time to think.

Some are harmless. Others are designed to confuse, mislead, or take advantage of us.

Digital self‑defense isn’t about fear. It’s about clarity. It’s about slowing down long enough to notice when something feels off, trusting our instincts, and leaning on each other the way our communities always have.

Many harmful messages begin with urgency. They stir panic or outrage. They pretend to be someone familiar. They push us to act fast or keep things quiet. When a message demands immediate action, that’s often the moment to pause. “A short breath can be the difference between safety and harm.” That pause gives us room to ask simple grounding questions: Who sent this? Why now? Does this feel true?

Our elders and teens need special care in this space. Elders often treat digital messages with the same trust they once gave to letters or phone calls. Teens move through online worlds where misinformation spreads through humor, aesthetics, and trends.

A “call‑first” rule can protect elders from impersonation scams, while teens benefit from learning to look beyond the surface of a post and ask who created it and why.

Verifying information doesn’t have to be complicated. A quick look at the source, the date, and whether another trusted outlet is reporting the same thing can stop misinformation from traveling through our group chats, churches, and community pages. When something feels questionable, it’s okay to ask someone you trust for a second look.

Community has always been our strongest defense. A small group chat where people check in about suspicious messages can make a real difference. A shared list of reliable local organizations helps families know where to turn for accurate information. Even pairing an elder or busy parent with a “digital buddy” can create a sense of security and connection.

Protecting personal information is another part of digital self‑defense. Strong passwords, two‑factor authentication, and avoiding real‑time location posts are simple steps that keep our households safer. Recognizing fake login pages can prevent someone from slipping into our accounts unnoticed. These habits don’t require technical expertise—only attention to detail.

Fake Tech Invoices

Scams often slip into everyday life because they look ordinary at first glance—a small invoice, a friendly message, a deal that seems lucky rather than suspicious. Fake tech invoices, often for small amounts like $69, rely on confusion and the fast pace of daily life. They mimic well‑known companies and hope people will pay without thinking twice.

Slow down. Look up the company on your own. Check your actual accounts. If you didn’t sign up for something, don’t pay for it.

Marketplace & Rental Scams

Fake listings on Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist continue to rise, especially for rentals and vehicles. Protect yourself. Never send deposits for sight‑unseen items. Meet sellers in person in a public place. Trust your instincts when a price feels too good to be true.

Scammers Target Artists

Artists are being targeted with scams that begin with genuine‑sounding admiration. The tone is friendly, even excited. But once trust is established, the story shifts: accounts aren’t working, payment can’t be sent, could the artist front money “just this once,” maybe with a little extra “for your trouble”?

Real buyers never ask artists to send money first. These schemes prey on hope, trust, and the joy of being seen.

Government Impersonation Calls

Phone scams have grown harsher. People receive calls claiming to be from the FBI, IRS, or local courts, threatening arrest unless they pay immediately. But “no legitimate agency demands payment over the phone,” and none ask for gift cards, wire transfers, or instant decisions.

If a call makes you feel rushed or afraid, hang up. Call the agency directly using a number you trust.

Wrong‑Number Text Scams

Those friendly‑sounding wrong‑number text messages, “Dinner is at 8. Hope you can make it. I can’t wait to see you again,” are designed to confirm your number is active. Even replying “wrong number” tells the scammer you’re willing to engage. From there, the conversation slowly shifts toward building trust and eventually toward money or cryptocurrency.

Ignoring these messages is the safest choice.

How to Respond When Something Feels Off

When something feels rushed, unclear, or just not right, do this:

• Pause – Take a breath. Scammers want you to rush.
• Verify – Check the source, the date, and whether others are reporting the same thing.
• Ask – Reach out to someone you trust for a second look.
• Report or Block – Don’t let harmful messages linger.
• Warn Others – Awareness is collective protection.

Online safety begins with everyday habits, shared wisdom, and the quiet strength of community. When we move with intention, verify with care, and look out for one another, we build a safer digital world together.

Visit the Digital Green Book at digitalgreenbook.org to learn more about tools that help protect our families and strengthen our communities.