Most scam texts do the same three things: they set a deadline, hide where the link goes, and push you to act before you think. Once you can spot those, you can read any message in seconds.
What it looks like
Example message written by us, from an unknown number
Final notice: you owe an unpaid toll of $6.40. Pay within 24 hours to avoid a $50 late fee. tollpay-secure-notice.example/pay
A vague warningIt does not name you, a plate or a road.
A short deadline and a penaltyThe pressure is the whole trick.
A link that is not the real siteLook for extra words, hyphens or an odd ending.
Check it in a minute
Do not tap yetPress and hold the link to see the full address, or skip it.
Ask who is really askingDoes this company have your number? Do you have an account with them?
Go there yourselfOpen the official app or type the address from a bill or card.
Paste it into the checkerSee whether readers reported the same number or link.
Delete it, then report itIn the US, forward scam texts to 7726 (SPAM). Elsewhere, use your messaging app's report option. Do not reply.
Already tapped it?
Tapping is rarely the problem on its own. Typing in details is. If you entered a password or card number, change the password, call your bank and turn on two-step sign-in.
Open the recovery planSources
- FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center: Public service announcement I-041224-PSA (12 Apr 2024)
- US Federal Trade Commission: Think that text message is from USPS? It could be a scam (23 Apr 2025)
- US Federal Trade Commission: Scammers hide harmful links in QR codes to steal your information (5 Dec 2023)