Family scam safety checklist

Agree these simple rules together as a family. Print or save this page - do not write any codes, passwords, or card details on it.

Privacy note: this is a checklist to read and print. Do not write OTPs, passwords, card numbers, bank details, or ID numbers onto it.

Shared family safety rules

Agree a few simple rules together, calmly and in advance. Shared rules make it easier for anyone to pause without feeling embarrassed.

• Never share an OTP, password, or PIN with anyone - no exceptions.
• Pause and verify before paying or sharing details after any call or message.
• Never click links or scan QR codes from unexpected messages.
• Never install apps or grant remote access because a caller asked you to.

OTP, password & payment safety

• Treat a one-time code like a key to your account - no genuine organisation will ever ask you to read one out.
• Use a different password for email and banking, and turn on two-factor authentication together.
• Never pay a normal bill, fine, or fee with gift cards, vouchers, or cryptocurrency.
• Confirm any payment request using a number or app you already trust.

Helping older relatives

• Agree that it is always fine to hang up and call back on an official number.
• Add trusted family numbers and the bank's real number to their phone so they are easy to find.
• Reassure them that banks and police never ask people to move money to "keep it safe".
• Offer to be the person they check suspicious messages with, without judgement.

Helping teenagers

• Talk about job, gaming, marketplace, and "money flipping" scams that target young people.
• Explain that being asked to receive and pass on money can make them a "money mule" - a serious risk.
• Make it clear they can come to you about anything online without getting in trouble.
• Browse real examples together in the scam types library.

Set up a safety net

• Choose a trusted family contact to check suspicious messages with.
• Agree a family "secret phrase" to confirm genuine emergency requests.
• Keep the message checker handy for a quick second opinion.

If a family member is targeted

• If money moved, contact the bank or payment provider immediately.
• If an OTP or password was shared, change it and log out all sessions.
• Save evidence, then block and report through the reporting directory.
• Be wary of anyone offering to recover money for a fee - that is another scam.

How to talk calmly without blame

Scams are built by professionals to fool careful, intelligent people, so blame only makes someone less likely to ask for help next time. Lead with reassurance, focus on the next practical step, and treat it as something the whole family handles together. This page is general educational information, not legal or financial advice; for a specific situation, rely on your bank and local authorities.

Last reviewed: 2026-06-01.