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Scam calls getting smarter? 7 days to a scam-proof family.

A free email challenge: one 10-minute step a day, for you or for mom and dad, built on FTC, AARP Fraud Watch Network and FBI IC3 guidance. Bonus: the printable Scam Shield: 12 red flags.

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Scam-Proof Family Kit

Scam-Proof Family Kit · $9Code word cards, large-print phone cards, a 60-minute plan if money is already gone, and a fridge sheet. Printable PDF, 14 pages.Get it now →
Scam Shield checklist, page 1: 12 red flags with what to say for each

The scam-proof kit

Tools that make scams harder

For you, or to set up for mom and dad this weekend.

Robocalls on the home phoneCPR V5000 Call Blocker for landline phonesPress one button to block the number that just called.Works on a classic landline with caller ID; not on internet (VoIP) phone service.Check price on Amazon → Someone gets your passwordYubico Security Key NFCAdds a second lock: a password alone is no longer enough on accounts that support it.Check price on Amazon → Passwords on sticky notesClever Fox Password Book with alphabetical tabsOne place, A to Z, kept at home and off the computer.Check price on Amazon → Mail with your name and account numbersFellowes Powershred 79Ci 16-Sheet Cross-Cut ShredderBank offers and statements become confetti, not a starting point.Check price on Amazon → Mom's phone keeps ringingPanasonic 3-Handset Link2Cell Cordless PhoneBig buttons, loud ringer, and a block key for the junk.Check price on Amazon → Strangers at the doorTP-Link Tapo D225 2K Video DoorbellSee and answer without opening the door.Check price on Amazon → Laptop camera always openElimoons Webcam Cover SlideA two-dollar slider. Closed means closed.On a MacBook, Apple advises nothing thicker than paper over the camera; use the lid instead.Check price on Amazon → Want the full playbook?Scam Me If You CanFrank Abagnale's book with AARP on how today's scams work.Check price on Amazon →

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How we choose

We pick tools from well-known makers that block a real scam trick: call blocking, a webcam cover, a security key, a shredder. Nothing that promises to make you scam-proof on its own, and no supplements. We show no prices, because Amazon prices change; the link takes you to the current one. We may earn a commission, and it never changes what we tell you about a scam. Full editorial policy.

What's inside

12 red flags of 2026

The "grandchild in trouble" call, fake toll and USPS texts, pop-up "virus" alerts, gift cards, the bank "fraud department," romance and more.

The exact words to say

One short line for each scam that ends the call without an argument.

"If you already paid" plan

What to do first for each payment type, plus the official places to report: FTC, FBI IC3 and the free AARP Fraud Watch helpline.

Want a look first? Read Day 1 of the 7-Day Scam-Proof Family plan right now.

Questions

Is it really free?

Yes. No payment and no card. After the checklist you'll get short emails about scams and money traps, and every one has an unsubscribe link.

Can I print it for my mom or dad?

That's what it's for. It's two pages, made to print and keep next to the phone. Print a copy for anyone you worry about.

I think I already paid a scammer. What now?

Call your bank or card company first, using the number on your card or statement. Then report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov and ic3.gov. The checklist has a step-by-step plan for each payment type.

Educational content only. Not legal, medical or financial advice. If you've lost money, contact your bank and report at ReportFraud.ftc.gov or ic3.gov. If you're in danger, call 911.