What should you do if a stranger contacts you through text or phone call? You should not respond to them; instead, delete the message and mark it as spam to avoid further contact. Even if the caller ID appears as IRS, Police Department, or Medicare, it's best to let them go to voicemail and visit the official website to verify their authenticity.
What should you do if you receive a text message or email informing you that your Netflix or Amazon account has been suspended? Do not call or click on any links provided. Visit the official website and check your account status from there.
What should you do if you receive an email receipt for a purchase or car repair bill you did not make? Ignore it and block the sender to prevent any future contact.
What should you do if you receive an unsolicited gift card? Just step away from it.
What should you do if you receive a stranger's friend request on social media? It's best to decline the bid and ask for verification before accepting.
What should you do if a pop-up dialog on your computer screen warns you of a potential virus? Stay calm, and do not click on any links or call any phone numbers. Skip the message and avoid accessing the same website.
AARP offers some of the best resources to help protect you from these scams and frauds.