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Before you start
- Keep your bank’s genuine contact number somewhere accessible.
- Use a second trusted route to check unexpected requests.
A clear way through this guide.
We’ll show you one step at a time. When you’re ready, press Done — next step. You can go back or take a break whenever you like.
5 steps · Your own pace
Pause and check a possible online scam
Step 1 of 5: Stop the immediate action
Do not send money, share a code or install software while under pressure. Hang up an unexpected call. Close a warning page; do not call a number printed inside a pop-up.
✓ Step complete. You can practise it again.
Step 2 of 5: Name what you are being asked to do
Look for requests to pay a surprise fee, move money, reveal a password or allow remote access. Urgency and claims of authority deserve extra checking, even when the message looks polished.
✓ Step complete. You can practise it again.
Step 3 of 5: Check through a separate route
Open the organisation’s known app or type its official website address yourself. Contact it using an independently verified number. If a relative requests money, call their existing number.
✓ Step complete. You can practise it again.
Step 4 of 5: Protect anything already shared
If you sent money or card details, contact your bank immediately through its official route. If you shared a password, change it through the genuine service and check account access.
✓ Step complete. You can practise it again.
Step 5 of 5: Report and keep useful details
Use the NCSC reporting guidance for suspicious messages or websites. Keep relevant screenshots and transaction details for your bank or reporting service without continuing the conversation.
✓ Step complete. You can practise it again.
Take your time. Next marks this step done.
You’ve finished this guide.
Every step is complete. You can come back and practise again whenever you like.
Your small practice task.
Write ‘pause, check separately, then decide’ beside your banking contact details.
Completing the guide records your progress here; it does not check your device settings.
A common question.
Does good spelling prove a message is genuine?
No. Scams can use accurate spelling, real logos and personal details. Independent confirmation of the request matters more than its appearance.
Official help, if you need it.
These links provide the product’s own instructions or relevant public guidance. Settings can differ by model and software version.