The email looked convincing. It claimed to be from Priceline Pharmacy, offering me an exclusive prize—a luxury Lancome perfume—for simply answering a few questions. The branding was spot on, the images polished, and the promise tempting. At first glance, it appeared legitimate.

But something about it made me pause. Why would Priceline, a reputable company, need me to answer questions before sending a prize they claimed I’d already won? I checked the sender’s email address, and that’s when it became obvious—"[email protected]…” was a far cry from anything official. The email was a scam, and it reminded me how important it is to stay vigilant.

Scams like these are designed to look authentic. They prey on our emotions—excitement at winning something, trust in a familiar brand, or the urgency to act quickly. And for a moment, I understood why so many people fall for them. But by slowing down, looking closer, and questioning what was being asked of me, I spotted the red flags.

Simple steps to protect yourself

This experience reinforced a critical message: staying alert can save you from falling into a scammer’s trap. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

1. Verify the sender’s email address: Legitimate companies use official domains. Anything else is a red flag.
2. Avoid acting on urgency: Scammers often pressure you to act fast. Take a moment to pause and think.
3. Go straight to the source: If in doubt, visit the company’s official website or contact them directly.
4. Don’t give away personal information: If someone asks for sensitive details before delivering on a promise, it’s probably a scam.

Scams are becoming more sophisticated, and even cautious people can find themselves second-guessing. That’s why it’s so important to keep sharing stories and reminders like this one. The more we talk about these tactics, the better equipped we’ll all be to outsmart them.