How to Recognise a Scam: Your 2026 Guide to Staying Safe Online
At LaunchLayer, we help local residents in Wickford, Basildon and Rayleigh spot digital scams and deal with them.
From AI voice clones to fake delivery texts, the aim is usually the same: to steal your data or money. Here’s how to spot the warning signs, and what to do if you’ve already clicked.
1. The "Urgent" SMS (Smishing)
You’ve probably had a text saying a parcel couldn't be delivered, or that your bank account has been "compromised".
The Red Flag: the message tries to make you panic and includes a link.
The 2026 Twist: scammers use link shorteners that look legitimate on a phone.
The Fix: don't click the link. Go straight to the company's official app or website instead.
2. AI Voice & Video Phishing
This is one of the newer threats. Scammers take a few seconds of a loved one's voice (often from social media) and use AI to clone it, then call you asking for emergency money.
The Red Flag: the caller sounds like a friend or relative but wants payment in an unusual way, such as gift cards or cryptocurrency.
The Fix: hang up and call the person back on the number you know. Agree a "family safe word" for real emergencies.
3. The "Fake Tech Support" Pop-up
While you're browsing, your screen might suddenly lock, with a loud beeping noise and a message saying: "Windows has been infected. Call the number on the screen immediately."
The Red Flag: companies like Microsoft, Apple and Google don't put phone numbers in error messages or ask you to call them about "security".
The Fix: press Ctrl + Alt + Delete, open Task Manager and close your browser. If the computer stays locked, turn it off and call 07367 652987. Drop-off is by appointment, and we'll do a secure malware check. Virus, malware and scam clean-up is a fixed £69.
4. "Too Good to Be True" Marketplace Deals
From a high-end gaming PC to a luxury watch on Facebook Marketplace, scammers often list items at a price that looks too good to be true.
The Red Flag: they insist on "posting" the item even though you're local, or ask for payment via PayPal "Friends and Family".
The Fix: meet somewhere safe and public for local sales, and don't use unprotected payment methods with people you don't know.
What to Do if You Think You’ve Been Scammed
If you’ve clicked a link or downloaded a file you don't trust, work through these steps:
Disconnect from the Internet: turn off your Wi-Fi or unplug the Ethernet cable, to stop anything sending your data out.
Change Your Passwords: use a different device (such as your phone) to change your banking and email passwords straight away.
Get a virus and scam check: at LaunchLayer, we offer Virus, Malware & Scam Removal for a fixed £69. We'll check for hidden keyloggers and remote-access tools.
Digital Confidence Sessions in Wickford
Technology shouldn't be scary. If you, or an older relative, would like a hand staying safer online, bring the computer in and we'll talk you through it. We’ll show you how to manage passwords safely and use the web with confidence.
Worried your PC's been got at? Book a free check and we'll take a look (Book your Free Diagnostic with LaunchLayer here).