How to Spot and Handle Sneaky Text Message Scams

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Hello, friends! Lately, I've been noticing a rather annoying trend creeping into my daily life. Amid the flurry of daily texts—those fun chats with friends, reminders from my dentist, and, yes, even those food delivery updates—there have been some unwelcome guests. I'm talking about text message scams.

These unsolicited texts try to swindle us into handing over sensitive information. To be honest, they can be pretty persuasive, but don't worry, we're going to tackle this issue head-on. We'll learn how to recognize these scammy texts and what steps to take when one pops up in our inboxes.


And I've got some good news: we're not going into this alone. We're armed with advice straight from the experts at the Federal Trade Commission. So buckle up, let's take a deep dive into the world of text message scams and learn how to keep our personal info just that—personal.

How to Spot and Handle Sneaky Text Message Scams

Hey there! In today's world, our cell phones are like extensions of ourselves. We're texting loved ones, ordering dinner, and even banking through our mobile devices. But, did you know that those handy devices can also be gateways for some not-so-nice folks looking to grab your personal info? Yes, we're talking about text message scams. Don't worry, though, I've got you covered. We're going to learn how to spot these scams and what to do if one lands in your inbox. Let's dive in, shall we? This info comes straight from the experts at the Federal Trade Commission.

Spotting a Scammy Text

So, what does a scam text look like? Well, they might:

  • Promise you free gifts like prizes, gift cards, or coupons that don't exist.
  • Offer a credit card with no interest, but there's no actual card.
  • Say they can help pay off your student loans, but they won't.
  • Claim they've spotted suspicious activity on your account when there isn't any.
  • Send a fake invoice or package delivery notification.


These messages might ask for your personal info or tell you to click on a link. Some of these links might take you to a fake website designed to look real. If you log in, they might steal your username and password. Some messages might even sneak harmful software onto your phone that steals your info without you knowing it.  The image to the right is one I recently recieved.

What to Do If You Get a Scammy Text

If you get a text asking for personal or financial info and it seems out of the blue, don't click on any links. Real companies won't ask for that kind of info through a text. If you think the message might be real, reach out to the company using a phone number or website you know is legit, not the info in the suspicious text

And guess what? There are ways to stop these annoying messages from reaching you:

  • Your phone might have a setting to filter and block spam or messages from unknown senders.
  • Your mobile service provider might have a tool or service that lets you block calls and text messages.
  • Some apps can block unwanted text messages. Just make sure to check the features, user ratings, and reviews before downloading an app.

Reporting a Scammy Text

Got a scammy text? Don't just delete it! Report it. Here's how:

  •  Forward the message to 7726 (SPAM). This helps your mobile service provider spot and block similar messages in the future.
  • Report it on the messaging app you use. Look for the option to report junk or spam.
  • Report it to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov

Scam-bam, Thank You, Ma'am: Wrapping Up on Text Message Scams

And there you have it! We've just ventured into the world of text message scams and you've come out the other side a true scam-spotting champion! Remember, these sneaky scammers can be pretty convincing, but now you know their tricks and how to keep yourself safe. The world of technology is ever-evolving and so are the tactics of these scammers, so stay sharp and keep learning. 

Feel free to share this information with friends and family. The more people know about these scams, the less successful these fraudsters will be. The next time you see a text that seems a little fishy, you'll know exactly what to do.  For addtional information, the FTC has an article on texting scams at https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-recognize-and-report-spam-text-messages 

Keep that phone of yours a safe space for fun chats, food orders, and cute pet pics, not a playground for scammers! Until next time, stay safe and scam-free!


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