Download the article Protect your information from scammers by understanding fake and phishing texts
This article was written in collaboration with wikiHow staff writer Rain Kengly. Rain Kengly is a technology writer at wikiHow. As a storytelling enthusiast with a penchant for technology, he hopes to create lasting connections with readers around the world. Rain graduated from San Francisco State University with a degree in film. Know more…
Are you receiving a lot of fake text messages from unknown numbers? A fake text message can look like an official request for an information update, a tracking update notification, or even a request from someone you know. You can easily recognize a fake text by the spelling, grammar, content, and tone of the message. Never click on suspicious links sent by text message. This wikiHow will help you determine if a text message is from a scammer and how to protect yourself after receiving a fake message.
- Scam messages are often sent from unknown phone numbers, have incorrect spelling and grammar, or request urgent action to resolve an “important” dispute.
- Never click on suspicious links, return SMS codes or send personal information.
- Always visit official websites and directly log into your account to check real notifications and alerts.
-
The text is from an unknown number. Unknown contacts should always cause concern. If you don’t remember giving your phone number to anyone, you should be skeptical when you receive text messages or phone calls from numbers that aren’t in your contact list.
- If the message claims to be from someone you know, try contacting them first using a method you can trust. Talking to them in person is always a good option, as email can be hacked.
-
The text lacks correct spelling and grammar. Awkward sentences and misspellings can mean the sender is coming from a place where English isn’t the primary language. If you notice a lot of spelling or grammatical errors in the text, the text could be a potential scam.
-
The text contains an abbreviated or unknown link to a website. Never click on suspicious links. Whether you recognize the website or not, you should be very careful when clicking on anything that is sent to you via text message. Since numbers can be spoofed, you should also be careful about links sent by anyone on your contact list.
- Links are a common method of identity theft. These scams collect your personal information for unauthorized use and can lead to identity theft.
-
The text offers random gifts or prizes. Don’t be fooled by the promise of spontaneous rewards; this is a way to get you to enter your personal information. If you have not participated in any contest, ignore these texts. If so, be sure to check the competition’s official website for a reliable number or method of contact.
-
The text asks you to take immediate action. Time-sensitive alerts are often a red flag, especially if you haven’t done anything to justify it. An unexpected medical bill, an overdue credit card bill, or a government form that requires action can set off the initial alarm. However, these are common scams that depend on your panic.
- Please keep calm and if you are concerned about the content, please visit the official websites of these services directly. Never follow links from the text itself.
-
The text asks you to submit a refund code. Some scammers already have your personal information, such as your email or phone number. I can sign up for services with this information and may need a code to verify the account. If this is the case, please do not submit the codes for any reason.
- Most official services will have customer service representatives you can speak to directly to remove your account information. However, if the service is from an unknown company, you can ignore it; the scammer cannot proceed without the code.
-
The text asks you to update your account information. This can be your online banking account, your Amazon account, or another account that contains your saved credit/debit card information. You should never receive these requests by SMS. In most cases, they are delivered by physical mail.
- If you are concerned, log in to the official website directly by typing its web address into your browser, instead of clicking or tapping the link. After you sign in, look for notifications or message alerts.
-
A text message sends you a delivery tracking code. With the convenience of online shopping, you may have to keep track of many packages. Some scammers will send you a link that pretends to contain updates to their package. Don’t click any links, especially if you don’t recognize the domain. Please check your email for official order status updates or visit the website directly.
- If you placed an order on Amazon, you can easily track the orders through the app.
Categories: How to
Source: newstars.edu.vn