Clear Path step · Home · Independence with a safety net
Put a 'when a call feels wrong' card by the phone
Why it matters: In the middle of a frightening call, people forget plans. A written card they can see works when memory doesn't.
On your path if you picked “An older parent or relative I help” for “Who's at home?”.
Do it
- Write three rules: hang up, call [name] at [number], never pay by gift card, crypto or wire because someone called.
- Add: never let anyone take control of your computer or phone, even 'Microsoft', 'Apple' or 'the bank'.
- Add: a pop-up with a phone number on the computer is a scam; close the browser or turn the computer off.
- Add the bank's fraud number from the back of their card.
Check it worked: A card by the phone and on the fridge lists the rules, the family member to call, and the bank's real number, and says that no real company asks for remote access or gift cards.
Simply put
It's like the emergency numbers card taped inside a kitchen cupboard. In the middle of a stressful call, people forget plans; a card they can see does the remembering for them.
In detail
Tech support scams increasingly lead into 'safe account' and fake government follow-up calls, so the card covers the whole chain, not just the first contact.
If this is new to you: Not sure what to write? Copy the rules from the steps, add your name and number, and the bank's fraud number. Large, clear handwriting is perfect.
Points toward the Long View: simple written rules that work however the next scam is dressed up.