What should you do if a friend messages you for help while traveling abroad and asks for money?

When a friend reaches out for help while traveling abroad and requests money, the best course of action is to call your friend using a trusted phone number. This approach is essential for several reasons.

First, it allows you to verify the authenticity of the request. Sometimes, scammers impersonate friends through social media or messaging platforms, and a quick phone call can confirm whether your friend is truly in need and sent the message themselves. By using a trusted number, you ensure that you are communicating directly with your friend and not with a potential imposter.

Furthermore, communicating via phone can help you gather more context about their situation. Your friend may be able to explain what happened and provide details that could clarify the situation, allowing you to assess whether assistance is genuinely needed.

Acting on a panic-driven message, such as wiring money immediately or responding solely through social media, without verification can lead to financial loss and support fraudulent behavior. Ignoring the message might seem tempting but could leave your friend without help if they genuinely are in a bind. Therefore, verifying through a call is the safest and most responsible action to take.