Scams are no longer something that only happens to others — they’re happening to all of us.
With robocalls, fake messages, and AI-generated deception, staying alert is more important than ever.
Here are 10 essential takeaways to help you understand the risk and manage the pressure.
You’re not paranoid
Millions of scam messages are sent every second, and you’re a potential target.
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Most fraud attempts today arrive through text messages, emails, and phone calls — all platforms we rely on daily.
Your mental resources are under constant strain
The pressure of being constantly alert and having to detect fake communications is exhausting.
It wears down your mental health and can lead to burnout and sleep problems.
Sleep problems are a real side effect
Fear of having been scammed – or missing a legitimate message – can keep you up at night.
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Anxiety and racing thoughts interfere with restful sleep and can disrupt your everyday life.
You become more irritable
Living in a constant state of stress, not knowing who to trust, makes small frustrations feel overwhelming.
This can strain your relationships and your ability to relax.
Your body reacts with fight-or-flight
Even a simple text from an unknown number can trigger a physical alarm response.
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Your body treats the threat as real, and prolonged exposure to this stress has long-term health consequences.
Scammers are more sophisticated than ever
Scams now come in many forms: romance, phishing, fake job offers, financial fraud, and even AI-generated people and voices.
It’s not just creative – it’s calculated and dangerous.
Young people are especially vulnerable
Teenagers are often targeted with threats of releasing intimate images – sometimes without ever having shared any.
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These scams exploit fear and shame, and in some tragic cases, have led to suicide.
You can learn to calm your alert system
Daily routines, mindfulness, and grounding techniques – like using your five senses – can help regulate your nervous system when dealing with potentially fraudulent messages or emails.
Rely on your trusted network and known resources
If you’re unsure whether a message is legit, ask a tech-savvy friend or relative.
Trusted sites like the Better Business Bureau or a company’s official website can also help you verify legitimacy.
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You don’t need to respond immediately
Scams thrive on urgency. One of the most powerful defenses is simply to pause. Take time to evaluate, gather information, and avoid acting on impulse.
This article is based on information from Verywell Mind.