What to do after a possible scam
Never use real personal data. If you need to, run it through the data cleaner.
I think I’ve fallen for a scam: [what happened, without personal data or account numbers]. Put the first steps in order of urgency (contact the bank through its official channel, change passwords, check accounts, report it) and tell me what evidence to keep. Mention official helplines only if you are sure they exist. Don’t ask me for data.
What result to expect
A list of warning signs and checks. It is only a guide: if in doubt, contact the organisation through its official channel.
Example
Situation: I entered my card details on a fake parcel-delivery site. Result: 1) call the bank on the number on the card or in its app to block it, 2) change the password if you reuse it, 3) keep screenshots and the link, 4) report it. In Spain, INCIBE’s 017 line gives free guidance.
Useful variations
- Ask for “a message to warn my contacts” if someone impersonated you.
- Ask “what to check in my accounts over the next month”.
Common mistakes
- Calling the number in the fraudulent message: always use the official channel.
- Waiting to see what happens: with a card, every minute counts.
Getting the most out of it
- Paste the prompt as is and only replace what is in [brackets].
- If the answer does not fit, do not start over: ask for “shorter”, “more formal” or “as a table”.
- Always review the result before using it: AI can get facts, dates or names wrong.
Before you paste it: quick checklist
- Never paste passwords, verification codes or card numbers.
- Copy only the text of the suspicious message, without your own details.
- Ask for a list of warning signs and what to do next.
- If you have a real doubt, call the organisation on its official number.
How to adapt it to your assistant
The template works the same in ChatGPT, Gemini, Copilot or Claude because it only uses plain language. If your assistant supports fixed instructions (custom instructions, Gems or projects), you can store your preferred tone and format there and paste only the variable part. On a free plan, split long requests into two or three shorter messages.
More on this category
Templates to spot scams, review suspicious messages and protect your accounts. AI helps you see warning signs, but it doesn’t replace your bank or official channels: if in doubt, contact the organisation yourself through its official website or phone number.