Scam messages are on the rise, and cybercriminals are constantly finding new ways to trick people into clicking malicious links or sharing personal information. One of the most common types of scams today is text message fraud, also known as "smishing" (SMS phishing). These scams often impersonate legitimate organizations like government agencies, shipping companies, or toll services to create a sense of urgency and panic.
Common Text Scams to Watch Out For
Unpaid Toll Fees – You receive a text claiming you owe money for an unpaid toll and must pay immediately to avoid fines. It often includes a link to a fake payment portal designed to steal your credit card information.
USPS or FedEx Package Delays – You get a message saying your package is delayed due to an address issue and are asked to confirm your details by clicking a link. Scammers use this tactic to steal your personal data.
Unpaid Taxes or IRS Warnings – A text claims you owe back taxes and must pay immediately to avoid legal action. The IRS does not contact taxpayers via text, making this an instant red flag.
Account Verification Requests – Messages impersonating banks, PayPal, or other services ask you to verify your account or reset your password via a link. Clicking the link could lead to a fake login page that captures your credentials.
How to Protect Yourself
Do Not Click Links – If you receive an unexpected message with a link, avoid clicking it. Instead, go directly to the official website of the company in question.
Verify Directly – If a message claims to be from USPS, a toll service, or a government agency, contact them directly through their official website or phone number.
Look for Red Flags – Scammers often use urgent language, grammatical errors, and unfamiliar sender numbers to trick people. If something feels off, it probably is.
Block and Report – If you receive a suspicious text, report it to your mobile carrier by forwarding it to 7726 (SPAM) and then block the sender.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) – Protect your online accounts by enabling 2FA to add an extra layer of security.
Staying aware of these scams and being cautious with unsolicited text messages can help you avoid falling victim to cybercriminals. If you ever receive a suspicious message, pause, verify, and protect your information.
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