Article by Jason Kratovil, Fairfax County Consumer Protection Commission
(Posted 2026 January)
Scam artists have become more sophisticated, using phone calls, emails, text messages, and social media outreach to create a sense of urgency and trick people into sharing personal information or sending money. To help residents stay ahead of these schemes, the Fairfax County Consumer Protection Commission has launched a new initiative called “Pause. Question. Protect.” It’s a simple, memorable reminder that you have more power than you think when faced with a suspicious request.
At the heart of the campaign is a message encouraging all of us to slow down. Pausing can give you time to think and interrupts a scammer’s number one tactic: pressure. Fraudsters rely on making you feel rushed, whether they claim your bank account is compromised, a grandchild is in trouble, or a utility is about to shut off service. Taking a breath and giving yourself time is often the first and most effective defense.
Once you’ve paused, the next step is to question what’s happening. Does the caller really represent your bank or a government agency? Is the request for secrecy or urgency typical of a legitimate business? Would a trusted company ask for payment by gift cards, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency? Most scams begin to unravel quickly once you allow yourself space to think critically.
The final step, protect, is about safeguarding your information and your finances. If something feels off – an unexpected request for personal data, a demand for immediate payment, or a message that tugs at your emotions – it’s okay to hang up, delete the message, or contact the organization directly using a verified phone number. Trust your instincts; they are one of your most reliable tools.
Fairfax County’s "Pause. Question. Protect." campaign reinforces that anyone can fall for a scam, but with the right tools, everyone can push back. If you ever feel unsure or believe you may have encountered fraudulent activity, you don’t have to handle it alone. Fairfax County’s Consumer Affairs team can help you sort through suspicious situations, report concerns, and find additional resources. Call 703-222-8435, TTY 711 or email consumer@fairfaxcounty.gov for assistance.
By making the simple acts of pausing, questioning, and protecting part of your routine, you help build a safer community for yourself and your neighbors. Together, we can stop scams before they start.
Top 5 Signs of a Scam
- Urgent pressure to act now – Scammers use fear and speed to stop you from thinking clearly.
- Requests for unusual payment methods – Gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or prepaid cards are big red flags.
- Unexpected contact from a “government agency” or “your bank” – Legitimate organizations don’t demand immediate personal information or payment.
- Messages asking for secrecy – Fraudsters often tell you not to tell anyone, including family.
- Emotional manipulation – Claims that a loved one is in trouble or that you’ve won a prize you never entered.
If something feels off, PAUSE, QUESTION it, and PROTECT yourself.
This article is part of the Golden Gazette monthly newsletter which covers a variety of topics and community news concerning older adults and caregivers in Fairfax County. Are you new to the Golden Gazette? Don’t miss out on future newsletters! Subscribe to get the electronic or free printed version mailed to you. Have a suggestion for a topic? Share it in an email or call 703-324-GOLD (4653).