Is this text message a scam or legit?
Messages
From: +1 555 0157
Hi, it's Dana R. I'm in a meeting and cannot talk. I need 5 gift cards at $100 each for a client today. Buy them and text me the codes. Keep this between us, I'll pay you back.
Executive gift-card request
Impersonated boss asks you to buy gift cards.
How to spot it
- Secrecy
- Urgency
- Gift cards
What to do
No legitimate request needs gift cards; confirm in person or by phone.
What the real thing looks like
- A real, documented purchasing request through the normal system
Try an example
A practice example with fictional companies. Answer it, then see the tells.
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