3 Text Messaging Scams and 3 Tips to Avoid Them

These days, our phones are constantly buzzing with text messages, and not all of them are from people we know or companies we trust. Some are legitimate, but many are cleverly crafted scams designed to trick us into handing over personal information or money.

Unfortunately, text messages are hard to ignore. Scammers know this, and they’re betting that you’ll open, click, or reply. When you do, they profit. The good news? There are steps you can take to protect yourself.

Common Text Scam #1: Bank Fraud Alerts

One common scam starts with a fake fraud alert. You might receive a message that appears to be from your bank, credit card company, or a popular retailer, claiming there’s a suspicious charge on your account. It sounds urgent, and that’s the point. If you respond or call the number provided, the scammer will launch into a convincing story to gain your trust and access to your accounts.

Common Text Scam #2: Unpaid Toll Notice

Other texts may warn you about a delivery issue or unpaid tolls. These messages often include links that appear to direct you to official sites like USPS or highway toll agencies, but they’re fakes. Once on the site, you’re asked to pay a small “redelivery fee” or settle your “unpaid tolls.” In reality, these pages are designed to steal your credit card details or even your Social Security number.

Common Text Scam #3: Fake Job Offer

Then there are scam texts promoting fake job offers. These prey on people who are job-hunting or simply curious, offering easy money or remote work opportunities, but it’s all a trap to get your personal information.

3 Tips to Stay Safe 

Whatever the message, the goal is the same: to trick you into giving up something valuable. Stay alert, trust your instincts, and follow these tips to stay safe:

• Don’t reply to unexpected text messages. It could lead to a scam.
• Never click links in unexpected messages. Scammers want you to react quickly, but it’s best to stop, think, and consider the legitimacy of the text link.
• Don’t assume a text from a known company or organization is legit. Check it out first. Reach out to the company, state tolling agency, or bank using a phone number or website you know is real—not using the info from the suspicious text.

Delete and report scam texts using your phone’s “report junk” option or forward unwanted texts to 7726 (SPAM).

If you believe your privacy has been compromised due to spam texts, you can contact us through our free case evaluation form. One of our data privacy specialists will reach out to assist you.