How to spot a scam text message

A text says your package is stuck, your bank account is locked, or you owe a toll. Here is how to tell a real message from a scam, and what to do next.

Scam text messages are written to make you act fast, before you have time to think. The good news: almost all of them follow the same few patterns. Once you know them, they become much easier to spot.

The warning signs

• It is urgent. “Your account will be closed today,” “Final notice,” or “Respond within 24 hours.” Real companies rarely rush you by text.
• It has a link you did not ask for. Scam links often look almost right, with extra words or odd spellings in the address.
• It asks for a code, password or PIN. No real bank, store or government office will ask you to text back a verification code. That code is the key to your account.
• It wants an unusual payment. Gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency or payment apps sent to a stranger are favorite tools of scammers.
• It is too good to be true. A prize you never entered, a refund you did not expect, or a job offer that pays a lot for very little work.
• It is a “wrong number” that turns friendly. A stranger who texts by mistake and then wants to keep chatting may be starting a long scam, often ending with an “investment” idea.

Common examples

You may see messages like these. They change often, but the shape stays the same:

• “Your package could not be delivered. Update your address here.”
• “You have an unpaid toll. Pay now to avoid a fine.”
• “Fraud alert: did you make this purchase? Reply YES or NO.”
• “Hi Mom, I dropped my phone. This is my new number. Can you help me pay a bill?”

What to do instead

1. Do not tap the link and do not reply. Even replying “STOP” tells the sender your number is real.
2. Check with the company yourself. Open the official app, or call the number on the back of your card or on a bill you already have. Never use a phone number from the text.
3. For a “new number” from family, call the person on the number you already know, or ask a question only they could answer.
4. Report it. In the United States you can forward a scam text to 7726 (it spells SPAM) so your phone company can block it. You can also report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
5. Delete and block. On most phones you can tap the sender’s name or number and choose Block.

If you already tapped or replied

It happens to careful people every day, so please do not feel embarrassed. If you entered a password, change it right away on the real website or app. If you shared card or bank details, call your bank using the number on your card and tell them. If you sent money with a gift card, contact the gift card company as soon as you can.

Not sure about a message? You can describe it to our AI Agent and ask “Is this a scam?”, or talk to a real person at New Tech. Never share passwords or codes with anyone, including us.