Text Scams 101: Recognizing the Red Flags and Shielding Yourself
Text scams have become increasingly prevalent, targeting unsuspecting individuals through mobile devices. These scams can range from phishing attempts to deceptive tactics to steal personal information or extort money. The latest text scams include missed delivery notifications, a text announcing you've won a prize, or a notice that your financial account is being closed. It's essential to be aware of the red flags and learn to protect yourself from these fraudulent schemes. Our Text Scams 101 will teach you tips for recognizing a text scam's red flags and help you protect yourself from becoming a scam victim.
Understanding Text Scams
Text scams, also known as SMS scams or smishing (SMS phishing), involve text messages to deceive and manipulate individuals into revealing sensitive information or parting with their hard-earned money. Scammers employ various tactics, often disguising themselves as legitimate organizations or individuals to gain trust and credibility. Popular scams that pose as trustworthy organizations might include a FedEx missed delivery scam text or a text from the USPS announcing you've won the lottery.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
To protect yourself from text scams, be vigilant and recognize the red flags that indicate fraudulent activities. Here are some common warning signs:
Urgency and Threats - Scammers often create a sense of urgency, demanding immediate action or threatening dire consequences if you fail to comply. Be cautious if the message pressures you to respond quickly without giving you time to think.
Poor Grammar and Spelling - Many text scams originate from foreign countries where English may not be the scammers' first language. As a result, these messages often contain glaring grammatical errors and misspellings. Such mistakes can be an indication that the sender is not legitimate.
Unfamiliar Sender - If you receive a text from an unknown sender claiming to represent a well-known organization or financial institution, verifying their legitimacy before acting is best. As mentioned above, scammers are posing as organizations such as FedEx, Amazon, and even the United States Postal Service. Do not click on links or share personal information without confirming the sender's identity.
Suspicious Links - Scammers often include text messages that redirect you to malicious websites designed to collect your information or install malware on your device. Exercise caution when clicking on links from unknown sources.
Requests for Personal Information - Legitimate organizations, such as your credit union or bank, would never proactively reach out and ask you to provide sensitive information like passwords, social security numbers, or credit card details via text message. Be skeptical if a text message requests such information and verify the request through alternative means.
Protecting Yourself from Text Scams
Now that you better understand the many red flags of a scam, here are eight practical steps to shield yourself from text scams:
Be Skeptical. Adopt a skeptical mindset when receiving text messages, especially those asking for personal information or immediate action. If something seems too good to be true or raises suspicion, trust your instincts and proceed cautiously.
Verify Sender Identity. When in doubt, independently verify the sender's identity. Contact the organization directly through their official website or verify contact details to confirm the message's legitimacy. It's better to take the time to be safe and verify than regret falling victim to an text scam.
Avoid Clicking on Suspicious Links. Resist the temptation to click on links in unsolicited messages, particularly from unknown senders. Always hover over the link to check its destination before clicking, or manually enter the organization's official website address in your browser instead.
Keep Your Devices Updated. Regularly update your mobile operating system and applications to ensure you have the latest security patches. Updates often contain fixes for known vulnerabilities that scammers may exploit.
Install Antivirus and Security Software. Protect your device by installing reputable antivirus and security software. These tools can detect and block malicious software, keeping your personal information safe.
Register for Do-Not-Call Lists. Consider registering your phone number on national do-not-call lists to reduce the number of unsolicited calls and texts you receive from scammers.
Block Suspicious Numbers. By blocking a phone number, you can ensure that you never receive any spam texts from that number again.
Report Scams. If you encounter a text scam, report it to your local authorities and relevant anti-fraud organizations. If it pertains to your credit union account, contact Spirit Financial immediately. Report text scams and other scams to the FTC. Doing so contributes to the collective effort to combat scams and protect others from falling victim to a scam.
Shield Yourself as Text Scams Evolve
As text scams evolve and become more sophisticated, staying informed and vigilant is crucial. By recognizing the red flags and implementing the protective measures discussed in our Text Scams 101 blog, you can significantly reduce your risk of falling prey to text scammers. Remember, your personal information and financial security are in your hands. Stay alert, stay informed, and shield yourself from the ever-present threat of text scams.
Keep in mind that Spirit Financial and other credit unions and financial providers will never contact you via text and ask for your personal information. Tap to visit the Spirit Financial Security Resource Center for the latest tools to help you proactively safeguard your Spirit Financial accounts and reduce fraud.