An Unexpected Text Message Scam
When “Hello” Means Goodbye to Your Money!
In this week’s scam, you receive an unexpected text message from an unknown number. The text seems harmless at first, with a message like “Hey, how are you?” or “Are you coming to the BBQ later?” If you reply to the message, the sender will start a friendly conversation.
But this “friend” is actually a cybercriminal! After some casual conversation, they’ll start talking about a great investment opportunity in cryptocurrency or gold, and promise you can make big profits with no risk. They’ll tell you to invest in a specific website or app. But this opportunity isn’t real, and any money you send will go directly to the scammer. If you send your money through the website or app, the cybercriminal “friend” will disappear, and your money will be gone forever!
Follow these tips to avoid falling victim to this smishing, or SMS phishing, scam:
If you receive a text from a number you don’t know, don’t reply. Replying to the message lets cybercriminals know that your phone number is active.
Be cautious of any promises of guaranteed profits or zero-risk returns. These are major red flags for scams.
Never send money, cryptocurrency, or gift cards to someone you haven’t met in person.
