User Guide
Everything you need to know about using VerifyFriendly to stay safe from scams.
Getting Started
What is VerifyFriendly?
VerifyFriendly is a free safety tool that helps you figure out whether a message, phone call, link, or email might be a scam. You paste or type what you received, and we give you a plain-English safety rating in seconds.
Do I need to create an account?
No account is needed to run a basic check. Creating a free account lets you save your history, earn your Scam Savvy Score, and set up Trusted Contacts who can be alerted if you find something suspicious.
Checking a Message, Link, or Phone Number
Check a Text or Email
Copy the suspicious message you received — the whole thing, including any links — and paste it into the "Check a Text or Email" box. Tap "Check It" and you'll see a risk rating (Safe, Caution, or Likely Scam) with an explanation.
Check a Link (website address)
If someone sent you a link and you're not sure it's safe, copy the web address (it usually starts with http:// or https://) and paste it into "Check a Link". Do not click the link first — paste it directly.
Check a Phone Number
Received a call from an unknown number? Type the phone number into "Check a Phone Number". We'll look it up and tell you if it has been reported as a scam or robocall.
Upload a Screenshot
If you received a suspicious message as an image (for example, a screenshot someone sent you), tap "Upload a Screenshot" and choose the image from your phone or computer. We'll read the text in the image and check it for you.
Scan a QR Code
Before scanning a QR code you found on a flyer, package, or email, use "Scan a QR Code" to check where it leads. Point your camera at the code and we'll show you the destination link before you visit it.
Understanding Your Risk Rating
Safe (green)
The message, link, or number does not show signs of being a scam. You can proceed, but always use your own judgment.
Caution (yellow)
Something looks a little unusual. It may not be a scam, but we recommend double-checking before clicking any links, calling back, or sharing personal information.
Likely Scam (red)
Strong signs of a scam were found. Do not click links, do not call back, and do not share any personal or financial information. If you already did, contact your bank and consider calling 1-877-382-4357 (FTC Helpline).
Trusted Contacts
What are Trusted Contacts?
Trusted Contacts are family members, friends, or caregivers you add to your account. They can be notified by email when you find something suspicious, so they can help you decide what to do.
How do I add a Trusted Contact?
Go to "Trusted Contacts" in the menu. Enter the person's name and email address, then tap "Add Contact". They do not need a VerifyFriendly account — they'll receive an email if you choose to alert them.
How do I send an alert?
After running a check, if the result shows Caution or Likely Scam, you'll see an "Ask Someone I Trust" button. Tap it, choose which contact to notify, and they'll receive an email with the details so they can help.
Family Access & Caregiver View
What is Family Access?
Family Access lets a family member or caregiver log in and see your recent scam checks and alerts — without being able to change anything in your account. It's a way for someone who cares about you to keep an eye out.
How do I invite a family member?
Go to "Family" in the menu, then choose "Family Access". Enter your family member's email address and tap "Send Invite". They'll receive an email with a link to create their own login and view your activity.
What can a caregiver see?
A caregiver can see your check history (what you submitted and the risk ratings) and any alerts you sent. They cannot see the full text of your messages, change your settings, or access your account.
Your Scam Savvy Score
What is the Scam Savvy Score?
Your Scam Savvy Score is a friendly way to track how actively you're protecting yourself. You earn points every time you run a check, learn about scams, or complete other safety actions.
How do I earn points?
Run your first check (5 points), check a link or phone number (2 points each), read a scam education article (3 points), earn badges for milestones. Your score and level are shown on your profile.
What are the levels?
Newcomer (0–49 pts) → Aware (50–149 pts) → Savvy (150–299 pts) → Guardian (300–499 pts) → Champion (500+ pts). Each level means you're getting better at spotting scams!
Learning About Scams
The Scam Education Library
Go to "Learn About Scams" in the menu to read about 8 common scam types — including Medicare scams, grandparent scams, tech support scams, and more. Each article includes real examples and warning signs to watch for.
Weekly Digest Emails
If you have an account, you can opt in to receive a weekly email every Monday morning. It summarizes your activity for the week and includes a rotating scam tip. You can turn this on or off in Settings → Email Notifications.
Privacy & Your Data
Is my information private?
Yes. The content of your messages is processed privately and is not stored beyond your session unless you are logged in and have history enabled. We do not sell your data to anyone.
How do I delete my history?
Go to Settings and scroll to the bottom. You'll find an option to delete your check history. This permanently removes all stored checks from your account.
Still Have Questions?
Contact support
If you have a question that isn't answered here, you can reach us at [email protected]. We're happy to help.
Report a scam
Found a scam that VerifyFriendly didn't catch? Please report it to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov so it can be added to national databases and help protect others.