Scam Checker & Protection Tool

Not sure if it's a scam? Let's find out together.

I Think I'm Being Scammed RIGHT NOW

Click here for immediate steps — don't give them anything else.

Scam Score Checker

Check the boxes that apply to your situation. The more you check, the more likely it's a scam.

They called YOU out of the blue (you didn't contact them first)
They claimed to be from a big company (Amazon, Microsoft, Apple, your bank)
They said your computer has a virus or your account is compromised
They asked you to download software or give them remote access
They asked for a credit card, gift cards, or payment of any kind
They created urgency — "act now or your account will be locked"
They told you NOT to tell anyone or hang up
The caller had a heavy accent or the call quality was poor
They asked you to go to a store and buy gift cards
Something just feels off — your gut says this isn't right
0/10 — Looks Safe
Check the boxes above that match your experience.

Phone Number Check

Enter the number that called you. We'll check for common scam patterns.

Common Scams to Watch For

The "Microsoft Support" Call

Someone calls claiming to be from Microsoft saying your computer has a virus. Microsoft will NEVER call you.

"Hi, this is Microsoft Technical Support. We've detected a virus on your Windows computer and need to help you remove it right away..."

The "Amazon Order" Scam

An automated message says there's a problem with your Amazon order or a large charge on your account. They want you to "press 1" to speak with someone.

"This is Amazon calling about a suspicious purchase of $499.99 on your account. Press 1 to speak with our fraud department..."

The "Bank Fraud Alert"

A text or call claims suspicious activity on your bank account. They ask you to verify your account number or SSN. Your real bank will never ask for this over the phone.

"ALERT: Unusual activity detected on your account ending in 4821. Call 1-888-XXX-XXXX immediately to prevent your account from being frozen."

The "Grandchild in Trouble" Scam

Someone calls pretending to be your grandchild (or their lawyer) saying they're in jail or in trouble and need money immediately. They beg you not to tell anyone.

"Grandma? It's me... I'm in trouble and I need you to send money right away. Please don't tell mom and dad..."

The "Alexa/Router Fix" Scam

You search online for help with your device and call a number that looks official. They "find" dozens of viruses and charge hundreds to fix problems that don't exist.

"I'm connecting to your computer now... oh no, I can see you have 20 Beijing viruses! This is very serious. We need to clean this immediately — our security package is $299..."

The "Gift Card Payment" Scam

ANY legitimate company or government agency will NEVER ask you to pay with gift cards. If someone asks for gift cards, it's 100% a scam. No exceptions.

"To resolve this issue, we need you to go to Walmart and purchase $500 in Google Play gift cards. Then read us the numbers on the back..."

The Golden Rules

1. Real companies DON'T call you about viruses.
2. NEVER give remote access to someone who called YOU.
3. NEVER pay with gift cards. Ever. For anything.
4. When in doubt, HANG UP and call the company directly using the number on their official website.
5. It's okay to hang up on someone. You won't get in trouble.
6. If it feels wrong, it probably is. Trust your gut.
7. Call someone you trust — a family member, a friend, or us.

Call Sussex PC — We'll Help You Figure It Out

STOP — Do These Things Right Now

Don't panic. Follow these steps in order.

1

HANG UP THE PHONE. Right now. It's okay. You will not get in trouble for hanging up on a scammer.

2

DO NOT call them back. Delete their number. Block it if you can.

3

If they have remote access to your computer: Turn off your computer immediately. Hold the power button for 10 seconds until it shuts off.

4

If you gave them your credit card: Call your bank RIGHT NOW and tell them you may have been scammed. They can freeze your card instantly.

5

If you bought gift cards: If you haven't read them the numbers yet, DON'T. Return the gift cards to the store for a refund.

6

Change your passwords from a DIFFERENT device (phone, tablet, another computer). Start with your email and bank accounts.

7

Call someone you trust — a family member, a friend, or call us. You're not stupid for falling for this. These scammers are professionals.

Call Sussex PC — 262.228.8858‬

We help with scam recovery. No judgment. Just help.

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