Identity theft scams are increasingly becoming more common and sophisticated as fraudsters utilize various tools and resources, along with a wealth of information available on social media, to trick people into giving them their Social Security, credit card numbers, and other personal data. In Q4 2023, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) received more than 230,000 reports of identity theft, with scammers using a variety of communication methods to defraud their targets, including email, social media account takeovers, and texting.
Phishing is the most common method by which scammers steal personal information. This is often done via text messaging, also known as "smishing." In its 2021 Phone Scam Insights report, RoboKiller reported that scammers sent more than 87 billion spam texts in 2021, up 58% from the year prior. With the rise of AI and other complex technologies that make these scams seem legit, it's more important than ever to be aware of how criminals are targeting potential victims.
Here's a look at five of the most common text scams in 2024.
Missed Deliveries
Online shopping exploded during the pandemic and, in 2023, more than 274 million Americans bought something from an online retailer. While this is a convenient service for consumers, it has also given scammers a new and viable way to steal money and personal information. For instance, in delivery notification scams, scammers send mass texts to random numbers with the message that a package delivery was missed. They generally claim to be FedEx, UPS, or another delivery service and include a link in the text for the person to reschedule the delivery.
These messages usually look legit, complete with the target's name and a fake tracking number. Those who have recently ordered something online might be prompted into clicking the link without a second thought, but in today's fraud-filled world it's important to be cautious of all unexpected messages. Do not click any links in texts from unusual numbers, especially if you weren't expecting a package delivery. If you are expecting a package and already have the tracking number, go to the company's verified website to check on the delivery status—do not take action on the text.
Scammers often guess personal details to make the message seem genuine. Even if the messages includes your correct email address, phone number, or mentions a retailer you’ve recently purchased something from, always verify the information through another route. Go to the company’s website or call their customer service line; never click on any links from a text.
Subscription Payments Declined
Sometimes, scammers pose as representatives of popular services to which many people have subscriptions, like Amazon Prime or Netflix. Similar to missed delivery scams, the fraudster is hoping to get the recipient to click a malicious link that directs them to a website where they enter their credit card payment information. They do this by alerting the recipient that their account is either locked or suspended due to non-payment. In some cases, they'll entice the target by saying they made an overpayment and need to enter their card information to receive a refund.
The best way to avoid these scams, again, is to avoid clicking text message links. You should also be cautious of texts containing poor grammar. If you are concerned about your subscription status, visit the official app or website of the company providing the service.
Impersonating Friends or Family
You should also be cautious of any text message from someone claiming to be a friend or family member with a new phone number, or an old friend or colleague reaching out unexpectedly. Scammers can make convincing cases that they know you by scouring your social media profiles and, in some cases, will carry on conversations for a lengthy period of time before asking for money or gift cards, usually to help them out of an emergency.
Generally, if someone is in a real emergency, they wouldn't require money via unconventional means like gift cards or cryptocurrencies. If you are concerned about a real emergency, use an alternative contact method to verify and find out more information.
Prize Winner
Who doesn't love winning prizes? Scammers also take advantage of this, sending texts with claims that the recipient has won gift cards, free trips, or cash. They typically emphasize urgency, telling the text recipient to click a link to claim their prize before it's too late. Alternatively, they'll ask you for personal information or a monetary fee to redeem the prize.
Be aware of any unexpected text message that sounds too good to be true, especially if you must confirm your identity.
Fake Employers
Fake job offer scams are also on the rise, with fraudsters using text, email, and online classifieds to target victims. They will either use a fraudulent company name, pose as a representative from a real company, or say they are a recruiter looking to glean personal information through a text-based “interview” to help you find employment, usually with a promise of flexibility and high wages. Again, the old adage is true—if an offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is.