Protect Yourself from Text Scams This Summer

As the sun shines brighter and the days grow longer, summer is the perfect time to relax and enjoy the great outdoors. But while you’re soaking up the sun, scammers are working hard to catch you off guard with text scams. Did you know that people almost always open text messages? According to a new Data Spotlight from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), open rates for text messages can be as high as 98%. While this is great for staying connected, it also presents a golden opportunity for scammers. Here’s how you can stay cool and keep your money safe this summer.

Some scams start as fake fraud alerts. You might receive a message from someone claiming to be from the fraud department of Amazon or your bank, offering to help with a suspicious charge. But that’s just the hook to get you to respond by messaging back or calling a number. Instead of help, they’ll spin elaborate lies and drain your bank account.

Other scams might involve texts about a problem with a delivery or a message about unpaid tolls. In both cases, they instruct you to click a link to fix the issue. When you land on what seems to be the USPS or highway toll program website (they’re not), they ask you to pay “re-delivery fees” or “unpaid tolls.” That’s when you might end up giving your credit card or even your Social Security number to a scammer.

Scammers also use phony job opportunities and “wrong number” texts to convince you to respond. No matter what story you get, here are ways to avoid text scams:

Don’t Reply to Unexpected Text Messages:

Just like you wouldn’t invite a stranger to your summer barbecue, avoid responding to texts from unknown numbers. It could lead to a scam.

Never Click Links in Unexpected Messages:

Scammers want you to react quickly, but it’s best to stop and check it out. Clicking on links can lead to malicious websites designed to steal your information.

Verify the Source:

Don’t assume a text from a known company or organization is legitimate. Reach out to the company, state tolling agency, or bank using a phone number or website you know is real — not the info from the text.

Report and Delete Scam Texts: Use your phone’s “report junk” option or forward unwanted texts to 7726 (SPAM). This helps authorities track and combat scams.

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By staying vigilant and following these tips, you can protect yourself from falling victim to text scams. As you enjoy the warmth and relaxation of summer, remember to keep your digital life secure. Stay safe and let the only thing heating up this season be the summer sun!