Don’t Get Hooked: How to Spot and Stop Text Message Scams

October is Scam Awareness Month, and one of the fastest-growing threats is text message scams, also known as smishing (SMS phishing). Scammers send texts that look like they’re from trusted companies to trick you into clicking links, sharing personal information, or sending money. Staying alert is the best way to protect yourself. Here’s what to watch for:

Common Signs of a Scam Text

Unexpected links or attachments:  Legitimate companies rarely send links out of the blue.

Urgent or alarming language:  “Your account is locked!” or “Package delivery failed!” are designed to make you panic.

Spelling or grammar mistakes: Even small errors can signal a scam.

Requests for personal information: Banks, delivery services, and government agencies will never ask for passwords, PINs, or Social Security numbers by text.

Real Examples of Scam Texts

 Here are some of the most common scam texts people see every day:

           Delivery scams (UPS/FedEx/USPS)

• UPS: "Your package is on hold. Please confirm your address here: [fake link].”
• USPS: "We attempted delivery of your package but need additional information. Reschedule here: [fake link].”

           Retail scams (Amazon, Walmart, Target)

• Amazon: "We couldn’t process your payment. Update your account immediately: [fake link].”
• Walmart: "You’ve been selected to receive a $500 reward! Claim your prize here: [fake link]."

           Banking scams

• Debit Card Issues: “Your debit card has been locked due to suspicious activity. Click to reactivate: [fake link].”
• Withdrawal Detection: "We detected a $1,200 withdrawal. If this wasn’t you, verify your account now: [fake link].”

           Government scams (IRS, DMV, Social Security)

• IRS: "You have an unclaimed refund. Claim it now: [fake link].”
• DMV: "Your vehicle registration has been suspended due to missing insurance information. Resolve here: [fake link].”
• Social Security: "Your benefits are on hold. Please verify your identity here: [fake link].”

           Job offer scams

• Remote Job Offer: "Hi! We saw your résumé online and want to offer you a remote data-entry job paying $45/hr. Apply now: [fake link].”
• Job Application Inquiry: “FedEx is hiring! Start immediately, no interview required. Fill out your application here: [fake link].”

           Prize and giveaway scams

• Free Prizes: “Congratulations! You’ve won a free iPhone 15 from AT&T. Claim it before 6 PM today: [fake link].”
• Nebraska Lottery: "Your number was drawn! Confirm your winnings here: [fake link].”

           Subscription or streaming scams

• Netflix: "Your payment failed and your account will be suspended. Update your billing info here: [fake link].”
• Spotify: "Your premium plan is expiring. Renew now to avoid service interruption: [fake link].”

How to Protect Yourself

Never click on links in suspicious texts. Go directly to the company’s website or app instead.

Don’t reply. Even texting “STOP” can confirm your number is active.

Report the scam. Forward the text to 7726 (SPAM)—a free service that helps block future scams.

Use official contact information. If a text claims to be from your bank or a government agency, call the number on your card or official website, not the one in the message.