Spot the Fake: A 10-Question Scam Quiz

Could you tell a scam text from a real one in the moment? This free quiz shows ten everyday messages, calls and pop-ups, all based on patterns that consumer protection agencies warn about. Pick “Scam” or “Probably real” for each one and you will see why right away. It works well with a parent, grandparent or teenager, and nothing you choose is saved. Checked October 25, 2026.

1. Text message
Your package could not be delivered due to an incomplete address. Update your details within 12 hours or it will be returned: parcel-redelivery-help.top

Scam. Delivery companies do not text strange links with a deadline. The odd web address and the time pressure are the giveaways. Check tracking only in the app or on the site you ordered from.

2. Text message, just after you tried to log in to your email
Your verification code is 482913. Do not share this code with anyone. We will never call or text to ask for it.

Probably real, because you asked for it. The message also tells you never to share it. If a code like this arrives when you did not try to log in, someone may have your password: do not share the code, and change your password.

3. Phone call
Grandma, it’s me. I’ve been in a car accident and I’m in jail. Please don’t tell Mom. A lawyer will call you about bail, and you’ll need to pay with gift cards.

Scam. Secrecy, an emergency and gift card payment together are the classic family emergency scam. AI can copy a voice from a short clip. Hang up and call your grandchild or their parents on a number you already have.

4. Email
Your annual subscription has renewed for $399.99. If you did not authorize this charge, call our billing desk immediately at the number below to cancel and get a refund.

Scam. Fake renewal emails want you to call them. The “refund” then turns into remote access to your computer or a request for money. Check your bank or card statement yourself instead.

5. Pop-up on your computer
WARNING! Your computer is infected. Call Microsoft Support now. Do not close this window or restart your computer.

Scam. Real security warnings never give you a phone number to call. Close the browser. If it will not close, restart the computer. Never let a caller take control of your screen.

6. Text message from an unknown number
Hi, is this Jenna? It was lovely meeting you at the dog park yesterday!

Likely the start of a scam. Wrong-number texts are a common opening for romance and crypto investment scams that build trust over weeks. Do not reply. Just delete and block.

7. Letter in the mail
Your Medicare Summary Notice for this quarter. This is not a bill. It lists the services and supplies billed to Medicare in your name.

Probably real. Medicare mails these notices, and they do not ask for payment or personal details. Read it and compare it with your own records. A service you never received could be fraud, so report it.

8. Job offer by text
Remote assistant job, $45 an hour, no interview needed. We will mail you a check to buy equipment. Deposit it, then send the rest to our approved vendor.

Scam. Real employers do not send checks and ask you to forward money. The check will bounce after you have already sent your own money on.

9. Message from a friend’s social media account
I’m stuck overseas and lost my wallet. Can you buy me some gift cards and send me the codes? I’ll pay you back next week.

Scam. The friend’s account has probably been hacked. Call or text your friend on their usual number before doing anything, and let them know their account may be compromised.

10. Email from your child’s school
Parent-teacher conferences are next month. Sign up for a time in the parent portal you already use. No payment is needed.

Probably real. It asks for nothing sensitive, takes no payment, and points you to a portal you already use. To be safe, open the portal from your own bookmark or the school’s website rather than a link in the email.

Your score: out of 10 (answered: )

Whatever your score, the habit that beats almost every scam is the same: stop, and check the story yourself using a number or website you already trust. Try our two-minute scam self-check when a real message worries you.

What the scams in this quiz have in common

Look back at the seven scams and you will see the same few moves again and again. Each one creates a feeling, such as worry, excitement or loyalty, and then asks you to act before you can think it through.

  • A deadline. “Within 12 hours”, “immediately”, “do not close this window”. Real organizations give you time.
  • A way to reach them that they control. A link, a phone number in the message, or a pop-up. Always use a number or website you find yourself.
  • Money that is hard to get back. Gift cards, forwarded checks, wire transfers and crypto. See gift cards are only for gifts.
  • Secrecy. “Don’t tell Mom” is a warning sign on its own.

The real messages share a pattern too. They ask for nothing sensitive, take no payment, and point you to something you already use or asked for. Even then, the safest habit is to go to the app, account or website directly rather than tapping a link.

Learn more about each scam

Frequently asked questions

Are these real scam messages?
They are written examples based on common patterns described by the FTC and other consumer agencies. The web address in question 1 is made up. Do not visit look-alike addresses you see in real messages.

Can I use this quiz in a class or group?
Yes. It works well read aloud, with everyone voting before the answer is shown. Our printable guides make good handouts afterwards.

I got some wrong. Should I worry?
No. Scammers are professionals, and anyone can be fooled when they are tired, rushed or worried. The habit that matters is pausing to check before you pay, click or share.

Sources

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This quiz is general information, not legal or financial advice. See our Disclaimer and Editorial Policy.