Free — no email address required
Staying safe online
The short guide we leave with every client. Read it, print it, and pass it to someone who needs it.
The #1 rule
Scammers don't break into your computer — they trick YOU into acting.
When anything feels off, before you click, pay, or share — call us first: (480) 980-1844
5 signs you're being scammed
- It's urgent. Real companies give you time. “Act now or else” is a pressure tactic.
- They want gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency. No real business or government agency is ever paid this way. Ever.
- They tell you to keep it a secret. “Don't tell anyone” means they don't want a family member to stop you.
- They ask for a password, a code, or remote access. Hang up. Legitimate companies never ask for this out of the blue.
- It's too good to be true. Prizes you didn't enter and refunds you weren't expecting are bait.
Spotting a fake email or text
- Check who really sent it. The name can say “Amazon” while the actual address is gibberish. That's a fake.
- Don't click links in messages. If your bank “emails” you, don't click — open your browser and type the bank's address yourself.
- Look for odd wording or spelling. Real companies proofread. Scammers often don't.
- “Verify your account” = stop. This is the most common trick there is. Go to the company directly instead.
Spotting a dangerous website or pop-up
- “Your computer is infected! Call this number.” This is ALWAYS a scam. Real virus warnings never give you a phone number to call.
- Don't call the number. Don't let anyone “fix” it remotely. Close the tab. If it won't close, shut the computer down — then call us.
- Watch the web address. A padlock and the correct spelling both matter. “amaz0n.com” is not Amazon.
The phone calls to watch for
These calls are designed to scare or rush you. They are almost always fake:
- “Your grandchild is in jail and needs money.” Hang up and call your family directly to check.
- “This is the IRS / Social Security / Medicare.” These agencies contact you by mail, not by threatening phone call.
- “This is tech support” or “your bank's fraud department.” Hang up and call the real number on your card or statement.
Your defense: hang up, take a breath, and call the real person or company yourself using a number you already trust — or call us.
Your safety net
You are not alone with any of this. If you're ever unsure about a call, an email, a pop-up, or a request for money — that's exactly what we're here for. There is no such thing as a silly question, and we would always rather take a quick call than see you lose a penny.
Want us to set all this up for you?
Knowing the rules helps. Having the protection in place so the calls and pop-ups never reach you in the first place helps more. That's the Safe & Sound Membership — and if you'd like to see where you stand first, start with a $49 PC Speed-Up & Safety Check.