List of signs of manipulation

A single-page A6-sized card (fits in a wallet) with a list of warning signs. If you see even one, use Z-Z-Z.

Time pressure

Someone tells you that you must act immediately.

Request for personal information

Someone asks for your password, an SMS code, your ID number, or your account or card number.

Strong emotions

Someone tries to instil fear (an accident, a break-in) or excitement (a prize, a great deal).

Prohibition on consulting others

Someone says "don't tell anyone" or "this is a secret operation."

Unsolicited contact

Someone reaches out to you out of the blue and demands action. You didn't ask for this contact.

Promise of quick profits

A sure investment, guaranteed return, no risk.

A link in a message

A text message or email contains a link where you're asked to enter information.

Request for money

Someone asks for a bank transfer, BLIK payment, cash, or card details via phone, text message, or email.

If you see even one of these red flags: Z-Z-Z.

Hand these out in Phase 3, after the group has collaboratively created a list on the flip chart. The card summarises what participants have developed on their own.

Full methodology

This was Chapter 14. The full methodology covers 19 chapters. Released under a Creative Commons CC BY-SA 4.0 licence.

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