How to avoid falling for text message phishing scams

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KKTV) – Experts with AARP ElderWatch say text message phishing scams are one of the most common ways scammers look for potential victims.

“The most common text message scam we hear about at the moment is scammers texting someone saying there’s a package that can’t be delivered. It often comes from someone who says they are with USPS, UPS, or FedEx. These are really common now,” said Mark Fetterhoff of AARP ElderWatch.

Often times, the text will ask you to call a phone number or click on a link to get more information or make a payment to pick up the supposed “package.”

“If you see a text message asking you to call a phone number or click on a link, don’t do either of those things,” Fetterhoff said. “That’s what they want you to do. They will ask for payment information. They might even try to gain access to your device.”

Fetterhoff says it’s important to delete text messages when you’re not sure who the sender is.

“We saw an increase in text message scams involving packages during the holiday season last year, and I expect to see them again this year,” Fetterhoff said.

To report fraud or financial exploitation to AARP ElderWatch, you can call 1-800-222-4444 and select option 2 or click here for more information.