Print this page and put it on the fridge. Fill in the code word by hand, together, in person. Keep it off text and email.
Shmira · Family Security Night
Our Family Pact
Our code word is:
Anyone in this family who calls asking for urgent help or money says the word first. If the caller cannot give the word, do not send anything, however real the voice sounds and however upset the caller is.
If a call, text, or message is urgent, secret, and asking for money:
- Stop. Urgency and secrecy are the scam. A real emergency can wait two minutes.
- Hang up. Even if they beg you not to. Especially if they beg you not to.
- Call back on the number already in your phone, never a number the caller gives you.
- Tell someone. Another family member, right away. “Don't tell anyone” is the clearest warning sign there is.
- Never pay by gift card, wire, crypto, or a Zelle to someone new. No bank, bail bondsman, hospital, or shul collects that way.
If you think you already sent money or gave information:
- Call your bank directly, right away. Fast calls sometimes stop a transfer.
- Change the password on that account, and on your email.
- Tell a family member. This was done to you by professionals; it is not a reason to stay quiet.
- Report it: reportfraud.ftc.gov and ic3.gov.
Agreed at our Family Security Night, and kept on the fridge.