Staying Safe
15 minutes
Global
How to recognise and avoid common phone and online scams
Why this matters
Mobile money scams are the fastest-growing form of theft in developing economies. Understanding the common patterns protects your savings and the savings of people you love.
What you need
Nothing — just awareness and attention
These are everyday items. If you don’t have one, look for the closest alternative — the steps will tell you what to use instead.
How to do it
Follow these steps in order. Take your time. You’ve got this.
Know the most common pattern: someone contacts you unexpectedly with an offer that seems too good, creates urgency, and asks you to act immediately. Whether it is a prize, a job, a loan, or a government payment, this pattern is always a warning sign.
Never share your PIN, password, or mobile money code with anyone — not even someone who claims to be from your bank, mobile network, or the government. Legitimate organisations never ask for these.
Before sending money or clicking a link, pause for 60 seconds and ask: did I initiate this interaction? If the answer is no, treat it as suspicious.
Verify independently. If someone calls claiming to be from your bank, hang up and call the bank’s official number yourself to confirm.
Tell your family. Scams work best when victims are embarrassed to discuss them. Talking openly with your household means everyone is protected, not just you.
Your one thing today
Tell one family member or friend about this skill today.
Don’t wait for the perfect moment. Do this one thing now, even if it’s small.
Come back tomorrow
A new skill will be waiting for you tomorrow. Or if you’d like to keep learning today, explore the full library.