Account & access
Can I open a shared scan link without an account?
Yes. Every GACS share link is public by design. If a friend or family member sends you a /scan/<id> verdict page or a /warn alert link, it opens in any browser with no account and no sign-in prompt.
Sharing a warning only works if the person receiving it can actually read it. That is why verdict pages and warning links render publicly — there is no login wall between your family member and the answer.
The shared page shows the verdict, the plain-language explanation and the recommended next steps. It never exposes your personal account data — only the public scan result you chose to share.
If the person wants to run their own checks afterwards, they can do so from the same page as a visitor, with the standard 3 free scans per 24 hours.
In practice
- Verdict pages (/scan/<id>) open publicly — no account needed.
- Warning links (/warn?...) render for anyone with the link.
- Shared pages never expose the sender's private account data.
- Recipients can run their own free scans from the same page.
Related questions
Do I need an account to check if something is a scam?
No — visitors get 3 free scans per 24 hours and the public scam database is readable without login.
Can I report a scam without an account?
Yes. The report form at /report-scam accepts anonymous submissions. Signing in only helps if you want the report tied to your account so you can track it.
Is the GACS account really free?
Yes. There is no paywall on core safety features. A free account unlocks higher daily scan limits, history, watchlist and alerts. Optional paid tiers exist for continuous monitoring and family protection, but personal safety basics stay free.
See the full list on the Access FAQ page.