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One-page printable checklist: protect yourself from account takeover and modern scams

Photographer: Jakub Żerdzicki | Source: Unsplash

One-page printable checklist: protect yourself from account takeover and modern scams

Print this page and keep it near your desk. Share it with family members (especially anyone who’s been targeted by scam calls/texts).

The 5-step protection checklist

1) Turn on multi-factor authentication (MFA) — start with email

  • Turn on MFA for your email first (Gmail, Outlook, iCloud).
  • Then turn on MFA for: banking, Apple ID / Google account, social media, shopping sites.
  • Prefer an authenticator app when available.
  • Never share MFA codes with anyone who contacts you.

Done when: Email + banking + Apple/Google accounts have MFA enabled.

2) Use strong, unique passwords (with a password manager)

  • Stop reusing passwords across sites.
  • Use a password manager to generate long random passwords.
  • Make your master password long and memorable (a passphrase).
  • If a site offers passkeys, consider using them.

Done when: Every important account has a unique password stored in a password manager.

3) Lock down what you share publicly

  • Set social profiles to friends-only where possible.
  • Avoid posting: birthdate, hometown, school, address, daily routine, travel plans in real time.
  • Remove old public posts that reveal personal details.
  • Watch what’s visible in photos (mail, license plates, house numbers, badges).

Done when: Privacy settings reviewed + “about me” sections cleaned up.

4) Treat “helpful strangers” + investing as a red flag

  • Be cautious with new online friends or romantic connections.
  • Red flags include: crypto trading “tips,” a “special platform,” pressure to move to WhatsApp/Telegram, promises of guaranteed returns.
  • If you can’t verify the person in real life, assume the relationship could be fake.

Done when: You’ve decided: “I never invest based on advice from a stranger online.”

5) Verify unusual requests (this stops a huge percentage of scams)

If you get a message/call asking for money, gift cards, wire transfers, crypto, login codes, or sensitive info:

  • Pause.
  • Hang up.
  • Call back using a trusted number you already have (contact list, the back of your card, or theofficial website).
  • Don’t use links or phone numbers sent in the suspicious message.

Done when: You always “break the channel” before sending money or info.

Quick “stop signs” (when to slow down immediately)

  • The message creates urgency: “act now,” “account will be locked,” “don’t tell anyone.”
  • You’re asked to pay with gift cards, crypto, or wire transfer.
  • You’re asked for a one-time code, password, or “verification” details.
  • The story is emotional and time-sensitive (family emergency, legal trouble, missed delivery).

If you think you were compromised (fast response)

  • Change your email password first.
  • Turn on MFA (or reset MFA if you suspect it was changed).
  • Check account recovery options (backup email/phone).
  • Review recent logins and devices; sign out of all sessions.
  • Contact your bank/credit card issuer if money is involved.

Fill-in section (keep this updated)

  • Email provider support page/login: _______________________________
  • Bank fraud phone number (back of card): __________________________
  • Mobile carrier support number (SIM swap help): ____________________
  • Trusted family contact to verify requests: _________________________
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