Before you click a link
Seven quick questions for any link in a message, advert or QR code.
7 points · Guide: Phishing websites, ads and look-alike apps
Printable security checklists
Short, numbered and made for paper. Print one, tick the boxes, keep it where you use your devices.
Eight one-page checklists
Is this message a scam?
If you tick even one box below, stop and check through a channel you choose yourself.
9 points · Guide: How crypto scams work: the script behind most cases
Protecting a recovery phrase
Secret, readable and recoverable — check all three.
9 points · Guide: Backups that survive fire, loss and family emergencies
Securing your phone
Ten minutes with your phone's settings closes most of the common doors.
10 points · Guide: Device hygiene: updates, malware and clipboard hijacking
Securing your e-mail and accounts
Start with e-mail: it can reset the passwords of everything else.
9 points · Guide: Accounts: passwords, password managers, two-factor authentication and SIM swaps
Spotting a fake website
A convincing design proves nothing. These checks do.
9 points · Guide: Investment-style fraud and fake platforms
Helping a family member
Fill this in together, then keep it by the phone.
9 points · Guide: Talking to older relatives about scams
What to do in the first hour after a scam
Work down the list in order. It is not your fault, and acting quickly helps.
9 points · Guide: Reporting fraud in the EU, UK and US
How to use them
- Open a checklist and use the print button. The printout leaves out the menus and adds the site name, the page address and the date.
- Fill in the family checklist together, and keep it by the phone or on the fridge.
- Give copies to relatives, neighbours or a community group. They are free for non-commercial use.
- Each checklist links to a longer guide that explains the reasons behind every point.