How to Spot Spam Texts and Protect Yourself From Scammers
We’ve all been there: Your phone buzzes, you glance at the screen, and instead of a message from a friend, you see an unknown number promising free gift cards, a suspicious “invoice,” or a too-good-to-be-true offer. These spam texts aren’t just annoying—they’re often traps set by scammers to steal your money or personal information. Let’s break down how to recognize these shady messages, avoid falling victim, and report them to help shut down the fraud.
Why Do Scammers Send Spam Texts?
Spam texts (aka “smishing”) are designed to trick you into sharing sensitive details like passwords, Social Security numbers, or credit card info. Once scammers have this data, they can drain bank accounts, hijack accounts, or sell your information to other criminals. Common tactics include:
- Fake offers: “Claim your $500 Amazon gift card!” or “Get a 0% interest credit card!”
- Urgent warnings: “Suspicious activity detected on your account—click here!”
- Phony invoices: “You’ve been charged $299.99. Contact us immediately if this is an error.”
- Delivery scams: “Your FedEx package is delayed. Confirm your address now.”
These messages often include malicious links. Clicking them could install malware on your phone or direct you to fake websites that harvest your login credentials.
What to Do If You Get a Suspicious Text
- Don’t click links or reply. Even texting “STOP” can confirm your number is active, leading to more spam.
- Verify directly. If a message claims to be from a company (like your bank or FedEx), contact them using the official phone number or website—not the info in the text.
- Block and filter spam:
- iPhone: Go to Settings > Messages > turn on “Filter Unknown Senders.”
- Android: Tap and hold the message, then select “Block” (steps vary by model).
- Wireless providers: Many offer free spam-blocking tools (check CTIA.org for options).
- Third-party apps: Apps like RoboKiller or Nomorobo can block spam calls and texts.
How to Report Spam Texts
Reporting helps authorities crack down on scammers:
- Forward the text to 7726 (SPAM). This alerts your wireless provider to block similar messages.
- Report it in your messaging app:
- iPhone: Swipe left on the message, tap “Report Junk.”
- Android: Tap the three-dot menu > “Block & report spam.”
- File a report with the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
Stay One Step Ahead
Scammers are always evolving, but staying skeptical is your best defense. If a text seems off, trust your gut—it’s better to double-check than risk your security. Share these tips with friends and family to help them avoid falling for shady schemes!
Got more questions? Check out the FTC’s full guide to avoiding phishing scams or check our related articles below.
👉 Spread the word—not the spam! 👈