Pause before urgency wins
A convincing message can still lead to a false login page or a request you did not expect.
In 30 seconds
- Unexpected urgency is a reason to check, not proof of authenticity.
- Open the service through a known route rather than the message link.
- Verify unusual requests using a separate, trusted contact method.
Make it concrete
A message says your school account closes in ten minutes. Visit the school’s known portal yourself and check with support before acting.
- 01Pause
- 02Verify separately
- 03Act
Check your understanding
Does a familiar logo prove that a login request is genuine?
- Unexpected urgency is a reason to check, not proof of authenticity.
- Open the service through a known route rather than the message link.
- Verify unusual requests using a separate, trusted contact method.
Go to the source
Sources reviewed: 13.09.2026