How to tell a scam call
It’s probably a scam if they:
- Say you won a prize, but you have to pay to get it.
- Threaten arrest, a fine or deportation unless you pay now.
- Rush you to decide on the spot.
- Want gift cards, a wire transfer, cryptocurrency or a payment app.
- Say they’re from the government and ask for your Social Security number.
The name on the screen can be faked. Scammers can show any name or number.
What to do:
- Don’t answer numbers you don’t know.
- Hang up if anyone asks for money or personal details.
- Never give account numbers, passwords or PINs over the phone.
- Call back on the number from your statement or the official website, not the one they give you.
Report scam calls at ReportFraud.ftc.gov and unwanted calls at DoNotCall.gov.
From the Federal Trade Commission (consumer.ftc.gov/articles/phone-scams) and the Federal Communications Commission (fcc.gov/consumers/guides/stop-unwanted-robocalls-and-texts). Checked on October 6, 2026. Printed from vicem.ai/guides/scam-call-card.