3 essential steps to take after receiving a scam call or message

If you are getting too many spam calls or messages, it’s normal to feel concerned or worried about what comes next. Scammers are getting craftier these days, using tricks like fake digital arrest warrants and even AI voice cloning to target people and trick them into sharing sensitive information. 

These scams are more sophisticated than ever and are designed to catch you off guard, which is why knowing how to respond quickly and protect your personal information is so important. Acting quickly and taking the right steps can protect your personal information and reduce the risk of falling victim. To help you stay safe, here are three essential steps to follow after receiving a scam call or message.

Essential steps to take after receiving a scam call or message

Scam calls and messages are more common than ever, and knowing how to handle them can make a big difference in protecting your personal information. 

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Scammers use increasingly clever tactics to trick people, but the good news is that a few quick steps can help you stay safe. Here’s what to do if you or someone you know received a scam call or message:

1. Don't engage or respond

When you get a scam call or message, the first rule is simple: don’t engage. Even replying with “stop” or “not interested” can confirm to the scammer that your number is active, which may lead to more attempts. If you accidentally answer a scam call, hang up immediately without providing any information or continuing the conversation. Be especially cautious with suspicious messages and don’t click on any links, as they could take you to fake websites designed to steal your information or infect your device with malware.

2. Block the number and report it

Once you’ve identified a scam, block the number on your phone to stop further contact, which can be done directly from your call log. After that, report the fraud; this way, it gets officially recorded and helps authorities track and take action against such activities. Many people skip reporting, but doing so raises awareness, supports investigations, and prevents others from falling victim to the same schemes.

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In India, you can report scam calls and messages to the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (cybercrime.gov.in) or contact the Cyber Crime Helpline at 1930. Additionally, the National Police Helpline is 112, and the National Women Helpline is 181. Many telecom providers also let you report spam by forwarding the message to 1909. Reporting these scams helps authorities track fraudulent activities and warn others about potential threats.

3. Check your accounts for unusual activity

If you think the scammer may have accessed any of your personal details, take immediate steps to secure your accounts. Start by checking your bank, email, and other important accounts for any unauthorised transactions or login attempts. Even if everything looks fine, it’s still a good idea to update your passwords for critical accounts like banking, email, and social media. Use strong, unique passwords for each account, and enable two-factor authentication whenever possible to add an extra layer of security.

Beyond these immediate steps, warn your friends and family about the scam, especially if you think they could also be targeted. Scams are evolving constantly and faster than ever, so staying informed can help you spot potential threats early. Keep an eye on updates from cybersecurity agencies that often share details about trending scams. 

It’s also smart to review your social media and privacy settings to limit how much personal information you’re sharing publicly. These additional precautions will help you stay ahead of potential scams and safeguard your digital security.