01
Urgency that prevents verification
"Act within 24 hours or your account will be suspended." Real organizations give you time. Scammers don't, because time lets you think.
02
Requests to move off-platform
"Text me on Telegram instead." Legitimate businesses transact on their own platforms. Moving to a personal channel removes all buyer protection.
03
Non-reversible payment methods
Gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, Zelle, CashApp. If someone insists on these, it's because the payment can't be reversed when you realize it's a scam.
04
Too good to be true
Below-market prices, guaranteed returns, high pay for easy work. The value gap is the bait. If you're wondering "why me?", that's your answer.
05
Emotional pressure or isolation
"Don't tell anyone." "This is confidential." "I love you, just trust me." Scammers need you alone and emotional because a calm outside perspective breaks the spell.