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Don’t Get Hooked by Phantom Phishers!

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Phishing Scams

What is phishing?

Have you ever seen a message saying you've won a free prize, game coins or something really exciting? Sometimes these offers are tricks to make you click a link or give away private information.
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This is called phishing, and it can happen in games, messages, emails and websites.

In Pico's Pizza Panic, Pico thinks he's won free pizza for life, but the prize turns out to be a trick to get his personal information

Cute cartoon purple bird with big eyes and orange beak and feet.

How these tricks work

Here is how some people try to trick others online:

  • They send messages offering amazing prizes
  • They use bright pictures and exciting words to get your attention
  • They ask you to click links to claim your reward
  • They make you feel like you need to hurry

They might say:

  • You've won free pizza for life!
  • Click here to claim your prize!
  • Enter your details to collect your reward!
  • Hurry! This offer won't last long!

These messages can lead to fake websites that ask for your name, address, passwords or other private information

What signs should you look out for?

Some online prizes might look real, but there are clues that can help you spot a phishing trick

Here are some things to watch out for:

  • The prize sounds too good to be true
  • The message tells you to click quickly
  • A website asks for your password or home address
  • Someone asks for bank card details to claim a prize
  • The link looks strange or comes from someone you don't know

If something feels strange or makes you unsure, stop and ask a grown-up before clicking.

How can you stay safe?

Remember Pico's Phish-Proof Checklist!

  • Stop and think – Don't click a link just because it offers something exciting
  • Check the message – If a prize sounds too good to be true, ask a grown-up to help you check it
  • Protect your information – Never enter your passwords, address or other private details to claim a surprise prize

What to do if you already trusted someone and it went wrong

If you've clicked a suspicious link or shared private information:

  • Stop clicking and don't enter any more information
  • Tell a trusted grown-up straight away
  • Show them the message or website so they can help
  • Ask a grown-up to check your device and keep your accounts safe
  • Remember, everyone makes mistakes and it's always okay to ask for help

You are not alone. We are proud of you for learning how to stay smart and safe online.

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