real businesses,
government agencies,
or local numbers,
making these calls appear completely legitimate. That’s why caution—especially early—matters more than ever.
2. Pause Before You Respond
One of the strongest defenses you have is surprisingly simple: don’t react immediately.
Even if ignoring a call feels rude, remember:
Real companies leave clear voicemails or follow up through verified channels.
Scammers rely on panic and quick decisions.
A 30-second pause to look up a number on an official website or trusted app can prevent huge problems later.
Being slow to respond is a form of protection.
3. If You Answered by Accident—Don’t Panic
Picking up a suspicious call doesn’t automatically put you in danger. What matters is what you do next.
