Common Scams to Watch For
1) Text Message Phishing (“Smishing”)
- Looks like: “Problem with your bank/account”, “Package on hold”, “Verify your identity” with a link.
- Goal: Get you to click a malicious link or give personal info (PINs, passwords, SSN, card numbers).
- Red flags: Urgent tone, unknown sender, odd URLs, attachments you didn’t request.
2) Robocalls & Impersonation
- Looks like: Caller claims to be your carrier, bank, or law enforcement. Threatens service suspension or legal action.
- Goal: Pressure you into paying, revealing sensitive data, or installing software.
- Red flags: Threats, demands to act immediately, requests for PINs/passwords. Caller ID may be spoofed.
3) Fake Job & Investment Offers
- Looks like: Easy money, work-from-home “openings,” or “guaranteed” investments sent via text/call.
- Goal: Collect upfront fees or personal/banking details.
- Red flags: High pay for little work, paying to start, no verifiable company info.
4) AI-Generated Voice/Message Lures
- Looks like: Very polished voicemail or message that urges you to “verify” via a link or call-back number.
- Goal: Capture logins or place malware on your device.
- Red flags: Unusual links/domains, requests for credentials, anything that feels “off.”
How to Protect Yourself
- Don’t tap suspicious links. Instead, visit the organization’s website directly.
- Verify the sender. Call the number on your bill or official website—never the number in a suspicious message.
- Never share sensitive info (PINs, passwords, full SSN) over unsolicited calls/texts.
- Use built-in spam protection and keep your phone updated.
- Pause when pressured. Urgency is a common scam tactic.
- Report scams to your carrier and FTC ReportFraud.
Avoid all scams with one-step
Important: Scam texts and calls are on the rise. If a message asks you to act immediately, pay, or reveal personal details—delete it and verify directly with the company using a trusted phone number or website.