🕵️ Spotting Scam Texts and Emails: Free Lesson Plan

Learn the 5 warning signs of a scam message, then practice with a fun group vote.

Time: 45 minutes

Supplies

Step 1: Welcome (5 min)
Say: "Today we are going to become scam detectives. Raise your hand if you have gotten a strange text this month." Let a few people share. Say: "You are not alone. Scammers send these to everyone. Today you will learn how to spot them in seconds."
Step 2: The 5 warning signs (10 min)
Write these on a board and read each one out loud: 1) It is URGENT ("act now," "today only"). 2) It asks for money, gift cards, or a code. 3) It has a strange link. 4) It says you won something you never entered. 5) It pretends to be someone you trust (bank, Medicare, a grandchild). Say: "If you see even one of these, stop and check."
Step 3: Group game: Scam or Real? (20 min)
Hand out the Scam or Real? sheet. Read each example out loud. Everyone votes by raising a hand for Scam or Real. Reveal the answer and point out the warning sign. Keep it light and cheer good catches.
Step 4: What to do instead (5 min)
Say: "If you are not sure, do not click and do not reply. Call the company using the number on your card or bill, not the number in the message. Or ask someone you trust." Mention our free Link Checker for anyone with a phone.
Step 5: Wrap up (5 min)
Pass out the handout. Say: "Put this by your phone. Remember: when in doubt, check it out." Invite questions.

Leader tip: Read every example out loud for anyone with low vision. Laughing at an obvious fake teaches more than a scary lecture.