Phone Call Checklist — WasItAScam.com

Did they contact you first? You didn't initiate this call — they called you, or they asked you to call a number they provided.
Did they claim to be from a trusted organization? Like a government agency (IRS, Social Security, Medicare), your bank, a tech company (Microsoft, Apple), a utility company, or law enforcement.
Did they create urgency or fear? Phrases like: "Act now," "Your account will be closed," "You'll be arrested," "This is time-sensitive," or "Don't hang up."
Did they ask you to pay in an unusual way? Gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, Zelle or Venmo to a stranger, or cash pickup. Real organizations don't ask for these.
Did they ask for sensitive information? Social Security number, bank account numbers, passwords, PINs, or login codes — especially since they called you.
Did they tell you to keep the call secret? "Don't tell your family," "Don't talk to your bank," or "Stay on the line while you go to the store."
Did the caller ID seem off — or too perfect? Caller ID can be faked. Seeing "IRS" or your bank's name on the screen doesn't mean it's actually them.
Did something just feel wrong? Trust your gut. If you're here checking, something felt off — and that matters.

You answered "yes" to 0 out of 8 questions

Probably legitimate

Based on your answers, this call seems okay. But it's always fine to hang up and call the organization back directly using a number from their official website — just to be sure.

Be cautious

This might be okay, but it's worth verifying. Call the organization directly using a phone number from their official website — not a number the caller gave you. When in doubt, ask someone you trust.

This was very likely a scam

Multiple signs point to this being a scam. Don't feel bad — these people do this for a living. The important thing is you're checking now. See the steps below for what to do next.

What to do now

If you gave no information or money

You're okay! Block the number and move on. You handled it well.

If you shared personal information

Don't panic — there are steps you can take to protect yourself. See our step-by-step guide.

If you sent money

Act quickly — some payments can be reversed. Here's what to do right now.

If you're still not sure

Call someone you trust — a family member, a friend, your bank directly, or the real organization using a number from their official website. There's no shame in getting a second opinion.

Remember: Checking was the smart thing to do. Scammers are professionals, and even the savviest people get targeted.

Was that phone call a scam?