Hey there, savvy reader! Imagine this: you’re chilling at home, and you get a call from someone claiming to be your bank. They say your account’s been hacked! Or maybe someone rings you up claiming your computer’s got more viruses than a sneezy toddler. Panic sets in, right? Well, that’s exactly what those pesky scammers want! They’re like digital mosquitoes, trying to suck away your money and personal info before you can swat them away.

But fear not, for the mighty FTC (Federal Trade Commission, not the Fun Time Club, unfortunately) has your back with a nifty new tool named “How I’ll Avoid a Scam: My Action Plan.” Think of it as your personal anti-scam superhero cape.

Step 1: Assemble Your Trusty Team! First things first, jot down a list of people you trust. Whether it’s your cool neighbor, your tech-savvy grandkid, or your bestie who knows a thing or two about internet trickery—having a go-to squad can help you figure out if that urgent phone call is a scam or just Aunt Mildred calling about her cat videos again.

Step 2: Know Your Numbers! Next, make a list of contact info for companies you actually do business with. We’re talking your bank, your credit card company, and yes, even that online shopping site where you buy novelty socks. This way, if you ever get a suspicious message, you’ll know exactly who to call for the real scoop.

Step 3: Spread the Word! Got your action plan ready? Great! Now, be a hero and help others make theirs. Drop it off at your family’s place, hand it out at work, or even share it at community events. You can be the caped crusader of scam prevention in your neighborhood!

And remember, if you ever spot a scam, don’t keep it to yourself. Report it to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. That way, we can all join forces to keep the scammers at bay.

So, stick your action plan on your fridge, keep it by your phone, or tattoo it on your arm (okay, maybe not that last one), and stay one step ahead of those sneaky scammers!

For more tips on how to stay scam-free, check out the original article: FTC Consumer Protection Article.

Original article: https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts/2025/11/use-action-plan-avoid-scams