First: call your bank
If money left your account or you shared card or bank details, call the number on the back of your card right away. Then change the password on any account you shared.
Resources
Tools, checklists, and where to get help
Free to use and share. Print anything on this page.
Something already happened?
Report a scam
If you sent money or gave out a password, act fast. These are the official places to go.
Report fraud to the FTC
Report scams, bad business practices, and fraud at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
Online crime: FBI IC3
Report internet crimes, including business email scams and ransomware, at IC3.gov.
Identity theft
Get a step-by-step recovery plan at IdentityTheft.gov.
Scam texts
Forward the text to 7726 (spells SPAM) so your carrier can block it, then delete it.
Phishing emails
Use your email app’s “Report phishing” or “Report junk” button, then delete the message. Don’t click anything in it.
Checklist
Five quick wins for today
- Turn on two-step login for email and banking.
- Use a passphrase: three or four random words, different for every important account.
- Turn on auto-updates for phones, computers, and your Wi-Fi router.
- Never read a login code to anyone who calls or texts you. Real companies won’t ask.
- Back up your photos and important files.
For small businesses
Three rules every shop should have
- Call to confirm any payment change. New bank details for a vendor? Call them at the number you already have before paying.
- Two people for big payments. Decide who can approve wires and gift card purchases, and have a second person check.
- No shared passwords. Give each person their own login, and remove access when someone leaves.
Take it with you
Download our pamphlet
A two-page overview of our free services and the scam examples we teach. Print it double-sided (flip on long edge).
Frequently asked questions
Is it really free?
Yes. Every session and resource is free. There is no sales pitch, and we don’t recommend paid products.
Do you log in to my computer, phone, or accounts?
No. Sessions are education only. We never ask for your passwords, never log in to your accounts, and never install anything.
Where do sessions happen?
At your business, or a public spot like the library or a community space. Email us and we’ll find a time and place that works.
How long does a session take?
A staff mini-session takes 15–20 minutes. The security walkthrough takes about 30 minutes. Community talks can be longer.
Can you fix my hacked account or remove a virus?
We’re not IT support or incident response. If something is happening right now, call your bank and see the Report a scam section above. We can help you learn how to prevent it next time.
Who do you work with?
Small businesses and their staff, families, seniors, and community groups in Merrick and across the South Shore.
Let’s talk
Book a free session for your business, family, or group.
Tell us who it’s for, how many people, and a few times that work. We’ll reply to set it up.