In the age of instant communication, our phones buzz and beep with a constant stream of messages. Texts from loved ones, updates from businesses, and even the occasional “I think you have the wrong number” make up the tapestry of our digital lives.

But lurking among these benign bubbles of texts are more sinister messages—texts that are not just annoying but potentially dangerous.


We’re dedicated to keeping you informed and secure in today’s digital landscape. So, I dive into the types of text messages you should delete right away to protect your personal information and stay one step ahead of scammers.

The Red Flags of Risky Texts

Scammers are getting craftier by the day, and they often disguise their traps with the veil of urgency or familiarity. Here are some tell-tale signs that a text message might be a scam:

• Requests for Personal Information: Any text asking for your Social Security number, bank details, or other sensitive information should raise an immediate red flag.
• Unknown Senders: If you don't recognize the number and the text doesn't make sense, it's best to err on the side of caution.
• Suspicious Links: Links to unfamiliar websites or ones that are a jumble of characters are often phishing attempts.
• Promises of Prizes or Threats of Penalties: Texts that congratulate you on winning a contest you never entered or threaten legal action unless you respond should be viewed with skepticism.
• Poor Grammar or Spelling: Many scam texts contain noticeable grammar and spelling errors.
• Requests for Immediate Action: Scammers often try to create a sense of urgency to provoke a quick, less-thought-out response.

The Anatomy of a Scam Text

Let's dissect a typical scam text to understand what we're up against. Imagine you receive a message that reads, “URGENT: Your bank account has been compromised. Click here immediately to secure your funds.” It ticks several boxes on the scam checklist: it's unsolicited, it's urging immediate action, and it includes a suspicious link. Even if it appears to come from a familiar entity, such as your bank, it's a good practice to avoid clicking on any links. Instead, contact the institution directly using a verified phone number or website.

How to Handle Suspicious Texts

If you receive a text that you suspect is a scam, here's what to do:

• Don't Respond: Engaging with the sender, even to say “stop,” can confirm that your number is active and lead to more spam.
• Delete the Message: Remove the text from your inbox to avoid accidental interaction in the future.
• Report It: Forward the text to 7726 (SPAM), which alerts your carrier to the scam.
• Stay Updated: Keep your phone's operating system and security software up to date to protect against malware.
• Educate Yourself: Familiarize yourself with the latest scam trends by visiting websites like the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or the AARP Fraud Watch Network.

Have you ever received a suspicious text message? How did you handle it? Do you have tips for others on how to recognize and deal with scam texts? Share your stories and advice in the comments below.