Review the request before you act
Check an invoice or payment request before you pay
A bill, renewal, or accidental payment can create pressure even when you do not recognize it. Check the real account and known payment history before responding.
A warning sign is a reason to pause, not proof by itself. TrustShield cannot guarantee that a message is safe or fraudulent.
Warning signs to slow down for
- The charge does not appear in the real account or your existing records.
- The message supplies the only phone number or link for disputing the payment.
- You are asked to fix an unexpected payment by making a separate transfer.
Safer checks you can make
- Compare the request with your own account and payment records.
- Contact the vendor or payment service through details you already trust.
- Let the payment provider reverse an accidental transfer instead of sending money back yourself.
Related scam guides
Compare the message with these fictional examples, then verify the real request through a channel you trust.
Fake "your subscription renewed for $399" email
An email says you were charged hundreds for a renewal and to call to cancel? That phone call is the scam. Here is how to check safely.
Cash App / Venmo "accidental payment" scam
Someone says they accidentally sent you money on Cash App or Venmo and asks you to send it back? Why you should not, and what to do instead.