Beware Of These Dangerous Text Messages: Delete Them Now!

Scammers are texting you! Learn how to spot and avoid dangerous text messages. Stay safe and informed with our latest tips. 📱🚫 #News #StaySafe #TechTips

Edina Woman Battles Scam Text Messages

EDINA, MN – Heidi Johnson, a 38-year-old mother of two from Edina, Minnesota, never thought she would fall victim to a scam text message. But one day, she received a message claiming her bank account was about to be closed unless she verified her PIN.

“I panicked,” Heidi recalls. “It seemed so real, and I didn’t want to lose access to my account.”

Unfortunately, clicking on the link in the message led to her personal information being stolen, causing a major headache for her and her family.

“I felt so violated and helpless,” she said. “I never imagined something like this could happen to me.”

Heidi’s experience is a stark reminder of how sophisticated and convincing these scam messages can be. Scammers are finding new ways to reach you, and text messages are their latest tool. Here’s what you need to know to stay safe.

Phone on desk shows unknown caller notification.

Types of Scam Text Messages

Phishing Through Texts (Smishing)
Just like email phishing, “smishing” involves scammers tricking you into giving up personal information through text messages. These texts often seem innocent or urgent, but their goal is to steal your sensitive information.

Fake Acquaintances
Scammers might pretend to be someone you know or claim a mutual friend gave them your number. A typical message might say, “Hey, it’s Don. Wanna hang out this weekend? Check my profile here: [URL].” They use common names to avoid suspicion.

Fake Package Notifications
One popular scam involves messages about a pending package. It might read, “[Your Name], we have a package from [a recent month] waiting for you. Confirm your delivery here: [URL].” Clicking the link can lead to identity theft or malware installation.

Bank Account Warnings
Scammers often pose as your bank, sending urgent messages like, “Your account will be closed unless you confirm your PIN at [URL].” Never click on these links; instead, contact your bank directly.

Fake Prize Winnings
Receiving a text that says, “You’ve won a $500 Amazon gift card! Claim here: [URL],” might be exciting, but it’s likely a scam. If you didn’t enter a contest, don’t click the link, or you risk downloading malware.

Proximity Scams
These scams use phone numbers that appear local but are actually international. The message might ask for help or request a call back. International calls can be costly, and scammers profit from keeping you on the line.

Locked Debit Card Alerts
A message saying your debit card is locked due to suspicious activity can be alarming. However, clicking the provided link to unlock it can lead to your information being stolen. Always contact your bank directly.

Fake Delivery Preferences
Some scams pretend to be from FedEx, asking you to set delivery preferences. These texts link to fake sites asking for personal information. Contact the delivery service directly if you receive such messages.

Texting while driving phone with notifications and conversations.

Protect Yourself

Avoid Suspicious Links
Clicking links in scam texts can lead to malware installation, encrypting your files, or hijacking your phone. Scammers can then demand money to unlock your device.

Use Security Apps
Install a reputable mobile security app that includes anti-phishing features. These apps can prevent you from clicking on malicious links.

Stay Updated
Keep your phone’s operating system up to date. Updates often include security improvements that can protect you from new threats.

Verify with the Source
If you receive a suspicious message claiming to be from a trusted company, contact the company directly to verify its authenticity.

Heidi’s New Approach

After her ordeal, Heidi took several steps to protect herself from future scams.

“I immediately contacted my bank and had them secure my account,” she shared. “Now, I never click on links from unknown sources and always verify with the company directly if something seems off.”

Heidi also installed a security app on her phone and keeps it updated to prevent further issues.

“I learned the hard way, but I’m more cautious now. I hope others can learn from my experience and avoid the same mistakes.”

Sign Up for Our Newsletter

We value your feedback! Did you find this article informative, inspiring, or thought-provoking? Leave a comment below and join the discussion. We appreciate your opinion and look forward to hearing from you!