How to Spot Scam Messages with ChatGPT | OpenAI Academy

TL;DR: This video shows how to use ChatGPT to spot potential scam messages and verify them independently through official channels to stay safe. ## Common Examples of Scam Messages Scam messages often disguise themselves as urgent notifications, attempting to trick users into acting quickly. Examples include: - "Your package cannot be delivered. Please pay a small fee immediately." - "Unusual activity detected on your bank account. Click here immediately." - "Hi Grandma, this is my new number. I'm in trouble and need money." ## Techniques Used in Scam Messages These messages typically exploit fear, urgency, or familiarity to prompt action before thinking. When a message pressures you to hurry, that's exactly when you should stay calm. ## How ChatGPT Can Help ChatGPT can act as your second set of eyes, helping you identify red flags that might indicate a scam. To use it, copy the message content to ChatGPT—avoid opening any links or calling numbers from the message—and ask for a one-time review. ## How to Use ChatGPT to Check Messages Use a prompt to guide ChatGPT's analysis, such as: "Point out the red flags in this message. Don't click any links. Tell me how to verify it safely through official channels." ChatGPT's response might highlight: - Pressure tactics - Unusual wording - Suspicious addresses - Requests for money - Links that look off ## Proper Steps to Verify a Message The key step is verifying the message's authenticity through other channels: - If the message claims to be from your bank, open your banking app or call the number on the back of your card—don’t use unfamiliar numbers from the message. - If it claims to be from a delivery service, manually enter the official website address—don’t use links from the text to check security. ## Create a Checklist You can ask ChatGPT further: "Give me a simple checklist to use next time I get a similar message." The checklist should be clear and concise, including: - Pause - Look closely - Verify through other channels - If in doubt, ask someone you trust ## Conclusion ChatGPT can help you spot red flags, but the final decision on how to act always rests with you. Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WY_PHjGilVs