SMS scams
SMS scams (smishing) use fake bank, delivery, toll, or prize texts to push you to a link or a reply. Texts feel urgent and personal, and shortened links hide where they really go.
Want to check a specific SMS message? Use the SMS scam checker →
How scams appear on SMS
A smishing message usually lands as a single alert with a tap-through link or a number to call. The sender ID can be spoofed to read like a real company, and the link is shortened so its true destination stays hidden until it is too late. Once you open it, a convincing copy of a bank, courier, or toll site asks for card details or a login, or for a one-time code you are told to confirm. Acting fast on a small amount is exactly what the scam relies on.
Common SMS scam examples
Sanitised examples - placeholders only, never real links or data.
Example only: Your parcel is held - pay the fee to release it: [fake-link removed]
Example only: Bank alert: unusual login. Verify now: [fake-link removed]
Example only: You have an unpaid toll. Settle today to avoid a fine: [fake-link removed]
Red flags on SMS
- A verification code you're asked to share or forward
- Urgent money requests from a 'familiar' contact
- A push to move the chat to another app or pay off-platform
- Links to log in or 'verify' your account
How to verify safely
- Verify any money request by calling the person on a known number.
- Never share a one-time code, even with a 'friend' or 'support'.
- Don't tap links in unexpected messages; open the official app yourself.
How to report inside SMS
- Forward scam texts to your operator's spam shortcode where available.
- Block and delete the sender, and report to your fraud authority.
- Don't reply 'STOP' to a clearly fake text - it can confirm your number.
How to protect your SMS account
- Turn on two-step verification (a PIN/passkey) in the app.
- Never share verification codes; treat code requests as takeover attempts.
- Review linked devices and remove ones you don't recognise.
Related SMS scam messages you can check
- Is this package delivery fee text a scam?
- Is this unpaid toll payment text a scam?
- Is this bank account blocked SMS a scam?
- Is this OTP / verification code request a scam?
- Is this WhatsApp job offer message a scam?
- Is this customs clearance fee text a scam?
- Is this fake delivery customs fee SMS a scam?
- Is this USPS redelivery fee text a scam?
- Is this UPS 'package cannot be delivered' text a scam?
- Is this FedEx address confirmation SMS a scam?
- Is this DHL customs duty payment scam a scam?
- Is this Royal Mail unpaid postage text a scam?
Related scam-type hubs
Related red flags
Glossary terms
Got a message like this?
Check it to see the specific red flags and what to do next.
Check a messageSources
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if an SMS message is a scam?
Check it against the red flags above and verify through the official app or website you open yourself. When in doubt, don't click, pay, or share codes.
How do I report a scam on SMS?
Forward scam texts to your operator's spam shortcode where available.
Last reviewed: 2026-06-15.