Text message scams — fake delivery, bank alerts, and refunds
Text message scams (sometimes called "smishing") have exploded in popularity. They're cheap to send, hard to trace, and people tend to trust texts more than emails. The most common patterns: fake package delivery, fake bank alerts, fake IRS refunds, and fake tech support.
Never click a link in a text message from someone you don't know. To check on a real package, bank account, or refund, use the company's app or type their address into your browser yourself.
Key habits
- Don't reply to scam texts — even with "STOP." Replying confirms the number is active and you'll get more scams.
- Forward scam texts to 7726 (the digits for "SPAM") to report them to your phone carrier.
- Shortened links like "bit.ly/xyz" hide the real destination. Real banks and shippers use their full domain.
- The IRS, Medicare, and Social Security never text you. Any text from them is a scam.