Family Scam Safety Checklist
A printable checklist to set up scam protections across your whole family.
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
Use this checklist to put practical scam protections in place for your family. Work through it together — it's a one-time setup that pays off every time a scammer makes contact.
Agree the basics together
These shared rules and tools defend against the most common scams.
- Set a family safe word for emergencies and suspicious calls
- Agree the rule: pause and verify before paying or sharing details
- Save official bank and agency numbers where everyone can find them
Secure devices and accounts
Reduce the chance of account takeover and phishing success.
- Enable app-based two-factor authentication on key accounts
- Set up scam-call blocking on phones
- Use a password manager and unique passwords
Know how to respond
Make sure everyone knows the first moves if something goes wrong.
- Know to stop contact and stop paying
- Know to call the bank on the official number
- Know to preserve evidence and report
Frequently asked questions
How often should we review this?
Revisit the checklist a couple of times a year and after any close call. Scam tactics evolve, so refreshing awareness and confirming the safe word keeps the family's defences current.