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TechFor60s

Is This a Scam?

Got a suspicious email, text message, or social media message? Paste it below and we'll check it for common scam warning signs. Your message stays completely private — it never leaves your device.

Note:This tool uses pattern matching to detect common scam tactics. It cannot catch every scam, especially sophisticated ones. Always use your best judgment and ask someone you trust if you're unsure.

Common Scams to Watch For

Fake Tech Support

Pop-ups or calls claiming your computer has a virus. Microsoft and Apple will never call you.

IRS / Government Scams

Calls or emails threatening arrest for unpaid taxes. The real IRS contacts you by mail.

Grandparent Scam

Someone calls pretending to be your grandchild in trouble, asking you to send money.

Package Delivery Scam

Texts claiming a package can't be delivered and asking you to click a link.

Prize / Lottery Scam

Messages saying you won a prize — but you need to pay a fee or share info to claim it.

Bank / Account Alert

Emails pretending to be your bank saying your account is locked. Go directly to your bank's website.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the scam checker work?

Our tool scans your message for common scam patterns — like urgency tactics, requests for personal information, suspicious links, threats, and too-good-to-be-true offers. Everything runs in your browser, so your message is never sent to any server.

Is my message private?

Yes, completely. The scam checker runs entirely in your web browser. Your message never leaves your device — we never see, store, or share anything you paste.

Can this tool catch every scam?

No tool can catch every scam. Our checker identifies the most common warning signs, but sophisticated scammers constantly change their tactics. Always trust your instincts — if something feels wrong, it probably is. Ask a family member or friend for a second opinion.

What should I do if I already clicked a link or shared my information?

Don't panic. Change your passwords immediately on any affected accounts. Contact your bank if you shared financial information. Place a fraud alert on your credit by calling one of the three credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, or TransUnion). Report the scam at reportfraud.ftc.gov.

What are the most common scams targeting seniors?

The most common scams include fake tech support calls (claiming your computer has a virus), IRS impersonation (threatening arrest for unpaid taxes), grandparent scams (pretending to be a grandchild in trouble), Medicare fraud, and phishing emails pretending to be from banks or Amazon. In 2024, adults over 60 lost $4.8 billion to cybercrime.

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