Slow Down

When Pushed To Hurry...

That Is Your Cue To Slow Down

We’ve all had moments when we feel like we need to get something done right now. Maybe you’re running late, trying to finish a task, or responding to an unexpected message.

Scammers know that feeling—and they use it to their advantage.

Creating a sense of urgency is one of the most common tactics scammers use to get people to act before they have time to think. They may tell you that your account is in danger, a payment is overdue, or you need to take action immediately to avoid a problem.

When someone is rushing you, that’s your cue to slow down.

Why the rush?

Scammers want you to focus on the problem they’ve created instead of stopping to question what’s happening.

A scammer might say:

• “You need to make this payment immediately.”
• “Your account will be closed today if you don’t act.”
• “There has been suspicious activity. Move your money to protect it.”
• “Scan this QR code now to receive your refund.”
• “Don’t hang up. I’ll help you take care of this.”
• “You only have a few minutes to complete the transaction.”

The details may change, but the goal is often the same: keep you moving quickly so you don’t have time to recognize the warning signs.

Stop before you click, pay or scan

When an unexpected request involves your money or personal information, take a moment before you act.

Stop. Don’t let someone else’s urgency become your emergency.

Think. Ask yourself: Was I expecting this message? Does the request make sense? Do I know who I’m actually dealing with?

Verify. If you’re unsure, contact the company or person directly using a phone number or website you know is legitimate. Don’t rely on the contact information provided in an unexpected message.

And remember, QR codes should be treated like links. Before scanning one, make sure you know where it came from and where it will take you. A QR code can lead you to a fraudulent website just like a suspicious link can.

Don’t be afraid to take a moment

Scammers may try to convince you that stopping or asking questions will make things worse. It won’t.

You have every right to pause before sending money, providing information, clicking a link, or scanning a QR code. If someone becomes impatient because you want to verify something, that’s another reason to take a step back.

A legitimate request can usually wait a few minutes while you make sure everything is what it appears to be.

Remember: Hurry is your cue to slow down.

The next time you’re faced with an unexpected request, don’t let pressure make the decision for you.

Stop. Think. Verify.

Taking a few extra seconds could help you spot a scam before you click, pay or scan.

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