How To Avoid Text Scams And Spot Red Flags Early

Summary In 2024, Americans reported losing $470 million to scams that started with texts, according to the Federal Trade Commission. Text scams are also becoming harder to detect with AI. Knowing what to look out for and how to avoid them can help protect individuals. Watch for urgent demands, suspicious links, requests for personal or financial information and unexpected messages from unknown numbers. Common scams include fake package deliveries, bank fraud alerts and fake job offers. To avoid text scams, always be skeptical of unsolicited texts, never click suspicious links and independently verify phone numbers and contact methods. Report potential scams to 7726 (SPAM) and the FTC, and enable phone spam filters.

TABLE OF CONTENTSText Scams Are On The RiseThe Telltale Signs Of A Fake Text MessageCommon Text Scams To Look Out ForWhat To Do If You've Fallen For A Text ScamHow Can You Avoid Text Scams? Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)A man sits anxiously on the edge of his couch while holding his phone. Scammers send text scams because they can easily be implemented on a wide scale, and victims may let their guard down and act quickly.GettyYour phone buzzes. A message pops up saying your package couldn't be delivered, or you haven’t paid your taxes. The message looks legitimate, garnished with an official-looking link, but the second you click it, you know you’re in trouble.

Text scams — fraudulent messages sent by cybercriminals pretending to be legitimate entities — have become one of the most profitable forms of digital crime in the U.S. and globally. They’re getting harder and harder to discern by the day. Knowing the warning signs and keeping track of how text scams evolve may be one of the most important things you can do to protect yourself and the people you love.