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A familiar voice, accurate caller ID, or convincing account details do not prove that a call or message is genuine. Scammers can clone voices and spoof phone numbers. The safest defense is not trying to spot AI; it is ending unexpected high-pressure interactions and verifying the claim through a contact route you already trust.
What to do when a call or message feels urgent
Use the same routine whether the caller sounds like a relative, a bank employee, or technical support:
- Pause. Pressure, secrecy, or a demand for immediate payment is a reason to slow down, not comply.
- Do not share money, passwords, or verification codes. Never read a one-time login code to an unexpected caller or grant them remote access to your phone or computer.
- End the interaction. Do not rely on caller ID or a familiar voice as proof of identity. The FTC says scammers can use a short online audio clip and voice-cloning software to imitate a family member.
- Verify independently. Call the person back using a number already saved or otherwise known to be theirs. For an organization, open its official app or type its known website address yourself, or use the number on a recent statement or payment card. Do not use a phone number or link supplied in the unexpected call or message.
- Check with someone you trust. If a supposed emergency involves secrecy or money, contact another family member or trusted person using a known number.
The FTC’s advice for a supposed family emergency is: “If you get a call like this, call the person who supposedly contacted you using a phone number you know is theirs, and verify the story.” Caller ID can also be faked. If a caller claims your bank account is at risk, get basic details, hang up, then contact the bank through a trusted route. Scammers may buy ads that place fake support numbers near the top of search results, so do not assume a search ad is an official contact.
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1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteThese precautions address impersonation scams broadly; they do not mean every scam uses AI. Consumers reported nearly $3 billion in losses to impersonators in 2024, according to the FTC in 2025. That figure covers impersonators generally, not AI scams alone. FTC: Impersonation scams took nearly $3 billion from consumers in 2024.
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Harden your phone and important accounts
- Turn on automatic software updates. Install updates for your phone and its apps so you receive available security fixes.
- Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA). Add it to important accounts, especially email and financial services, wherever the provider offers it. The FTC names security keys and authenticator apps as possible factors. Check the account provider’s instructions for setup and recovery options.
- Keep verification codes private. A code is for you to enter into the service you are signing in to—not to share with a caller who claims to be from that service.
- Back up your phone data. A current backup can help you restore information if you lose access to or need to reset a device.
MFA adds a barrier to someone trying to sign in; it does not establish who is calling or make it safe to follow a caller’s instructions. Treat a request to disclose a code or approve an unexpected sign-in as a reason to stop and contact the service through a trusted channel. See the FTC’s guidance on recognizing and avoiding phishing scams.
Avoid phishing links and fake software downloads
An unexpected email, text, or social post may lead to a fake sign-in page or a harmful download. An ad for AI software can also lead to a cloned website or malware-laden file. Avoid opening unexpected links and attachments, especially when a message pressures you to act or sign in.
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- WORKS WITH 1000+ ACCOUNTS: Compatible with popular accounts like Google, Microsoft, and Apple. A single YubiKey 5C NFC secures 100+ of your favorite accounts, including email, password managers, and more
- FAST & CONVENIENT LOGIN: Plug in your YubiKey 5C NFC via USB and tap it, or tap it against your phone (NFC), to authenticate. No batteries, no internet connection, and no extra fees required
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- PRIMARY & SPARE KEYS: Just like having a spare house key, we recommend buying two YubiKeys - one for daily use and one as a spare. That way you’ll never get locked out of your accounts
- To check an account notice, open the service’s official app or enter its known website address yourself instead of following the message link.
- To download software, go directly to the vendor’s official website rather than using a sponsored search result or an ad.
- Keep your phone and software protection up to date, and do not install an app or grant permissions just because an ad or caller says it is necessary.
The FTC explains the risks of AI-software ads and recommends going directly to the vendor’s website: FTC consumer alert on fake AI-generated celebrity endorsements.
What to do if you clicked, shared information, or granted access
Act through official channels rather than replying to the message or calling the number that contacted you. The right recovery steps depend on what happened and which device or service is involved.
Rank #3
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- WORKS WITH 1000+ ACCOUNTS: Compatible with popular accounts like Google, Microsoft, and Apple. A single YubiKey 5 NFC secures 100+ of your favorite accounts, including email, password managers, and more
- FAST & CONVENIENT LOGIN: Plug in your YubiKey 5 NFC via USB and tap it, or tap it against your phone (NFC), to authenticate. No batteries, no internet connection, and no extra fees required
- MOST SECURE PASSKEY: Supports FIDO2/WebAuthn, FIDO U2F, Yubico OTP, OATH-TOTP/HOTP, Smart card (PIV), and OpenPGP. That means it’s versatile, working almost anywhere you need it
- PRIMARY & SPARE KEYS: Just like having a spare house key, we recommend buying two YubiKeys - one for daily use and one as a spare. That way you’ll never get locked out of your accounts
- If you entered a password or account details, use the service’s official recovery route and change the affected password. If you reused it elsewhere, update those accounts too.
- If you gave out a verification code, approved a sign-in, or let someone access your device, contact the relevant account or device provider directly using its official app, website, or other known contact method. Secure affected accounts and follow the provider’s recovery instructions.
- If financial information or money was involved, contact your bank or payment provider through a number on your card or statement, or its official app or website. Explain what was disclosed or sent and ask what protective steps are available.
- If sensitive identity information was exposed, visit IdentityTheft.gov for tailored recovery steps.
Do not assume that clicking a link alone means an account was compromised. If you entered information, downloaded a file, or granted access, tell the affected provider exactly what happened so it can direct you to the appropriate recovery process.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Report phishing and suspected scams
- Forward phishing email to reportphishing@apwg.org.
- Forward phishing text messages to 7726 (SPAM).
- Report suspected scams to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
These reporting routes are U.S. guidance. For a scam outside the United States, use the appropriate local consumer-protection or cybercrime reporting service.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- POWERFUL SECURITY KEY: The Security Key NFC is the essential physical passkey for protecting your digital life from phishing attacks. It ensures only you can access your accounts.
- WORKS WITH 1000+ ACCOUNTS: Compatible with Google, Microsoft, and Apple. A single Security Key NFC secures 100 of your favorite accounts, including email, password managers, and more.
- FAST & CONVENIENT LOGIN: Plug in your Security Key NFC via USB-A and tap it, or tap it against your phone (NFC) to authenticate. No batteries, no internet connection, and no extra fees required.
- TRUSTED PASSKEY TECHNOLOGY: Uses the latest passkey standards (FIDO2/WebAuthn & FIDO U2F) but does not support One-Time Passwords. For complex needs, check out the YubiKey 5 Series.
- BUILT TO LAST: Made from tough, waterproof, and crush-resistant materials. Manufactured in Sweden and programmed in the USA with the highest security standards.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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