How do I use a scam risk checker or risk score tool?
Use the ScamEncyclopedia risk checker at /risk-score/scam-risk-checker to assess a suspicious message, website, or contact, then report through the appropriate official channel based on the results.
Last reviewed: 10 June 2026
Explanation
A scam risk checker asks you structured questions about a contact, website, message, or offer, and returns a risk assessment based on known fraud patterns. It is a useful first step when you are unsure whether something you received is a scam before committing to a full report with an official agency.
The ScamEncyclopedia risk checker at /risk-score/scam-risk-checker covers common indicators such as unsolicited contact, payment method, urgency, anonymity, and promises that match known scam scripts. A high risk score indicates you should stop all contact and consider reporting, even if you have not yet lost money.
Risk checkers are informational tools and are not a substitute for official reporting. If the checker flags a high risk and you have lost money or personal data, proceed to ReportFraud.ftc.gov, reportfraud.police.uk, or ic3.gov depending on your situation. The checker result can provide a useful context summary to include in your report.
For suspicious websites, also use Google's Safe Browsing transparency report at transparencyreport.google.com/safe-browsing/search to see whether a URL has been flagged. For phone numbers, services such as TrueCaller and Hiya aggregate user reports to flag known scam numbers before you answer.
Common red flags
- The contact has several characteristics the risk checker flagged as high-risk
- You are feeling pressured to act before checking whether the contact is legitimate
- The other party discourages you from using any verification tools
- The offer or situation closely matches a pattern described in a known scam category
What to do now
- Use the risk checker at /risk-score/scam-risk-checker before responding
- If the score is high, stop all contact with the other party
- Check a suspicious phone number on TrueCaller or Hiya
- Verify a suspicious website on Google's Safe Browsing transparency report
- Report to the FTC or Report Fraud (formerly Action Fraud) if the risk checker confirms your concerns
- Visit /report-a-scam for a guided reporting pathway
Frequently asked questions
Is the risk checker 100% accurate?
No risk checker can guarantee accuracy because scams evolve constantly. A low risk score does not mean something is definitely safe. Use the checker alongside your own judgement and, when in doubt, do not proceed.
Can I use the risk checker anonymously?
Yes. The ScamEncyclopedia risk checker does not require you to create an account or provide personal details.
Sources
- FTC — Online Shopping — Federal Trade Commission
- Scamwatch — Buying and Selling Scams — Australian Competition & Consumer Commission
- Report Fraud — Online Shopping Fraud — Report Fraud (UK National Fraud & Cyber Crime Reporting Centre)
- BBB Scam Tracker — Better Business Bureau