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Security
How to spot a scam message before you tap
Fake deliveries, “Hi Mum” texts and bank alerts: the signs that give a scam away.
- KindSecurity
- DateAug 17, 2026
- Read time8 min
Security
How to spot a scam message before you tap
Fake deliveries, “Hi Mum” texts and bank alerts: the signs that give a scam away.
- KindSecurity
- DateAug 17, 2026
- Read time8 min
Security
How to spot a scam message before you tap
Fake deliveries, “Hi Mum” texts and bank alerts: the signs that give a scam away.
- KindSecurity
- DateAug 17, 2026
- Read time8 min
SecurityAug 17, 20268 min read
Scam messages have become very convincing. They use real logos, real-looking links and a sense of urgency that makes you act before you think. These are the five kinds we see most, and how to tell them apart from the real thing.
The fake delivery
A text says a parcel could not be delivered and asks you to pay a small fee or confirm your address through a link. Real couriers rarely ask for payment by text. Check the tracking number on the courier's own website or app instead of tapping the link.
The “Hi Mum” message
A message from an unknown number says it is your son or daughter with a new phone, and soon asks for money for an urgent bill. Always call the old number, or ask a question only your family would know, before you send anything.
“If a message makes you feel rushed or scared, that is exactly the moment to slow down.
The bank alert
A message warns of a suspicious payment and asks you to log in or call a number. Your bank will never ask for your PIN, your password or a one-time code. Hang up, and call the number printed on the back of your card.
And never share a WhatsApp verification code with anyone, even a friend.
The prize and the job offer
You have won a phone you never entered a draw for, or a recruiter offers easy money for liking videos. If it is too good to be true, it is a scam. Do not reply, and never pay a fee to receive a prize.
If you have already tapped a link or shared details, change your passwords, call your bank straight away and turn on two-step verification. Then report the message and block the sender, so it cannot reach you again.
— MyTextStory
All posts
SecurityAug 17, 20268 min read
Scam messages have become very convincing. They use real logos, real-looking links and a sense of urgency that makes you act before you think. These are the five kinds we see most, and how to tell them apart from the real thing.
The fake delivery
A text says a parcel could not be delivered and asks you to pay a small fee or confirm your address through a link. Real couriers rarely ask for payment by text. Check the tracking number on the courier's own website or app instead of tapping the link.
The “Hi Mum” message
A message from an unknown number says it is your son or daughter with a new phone, and soon asks for money for an urgent bill. Always call the old number, or ask a question only your family would know, before you send anything.
“If a message makes you feel rushed or scared, that is exactly the moment to slow down.
The bank alert
A message warns of a suspicious payment and asks you to log in or call a number. Your bank will never ask for your PIN, your password or a one-time code. Hang up, and call the number printed on the back of your card.
And never share a WhatsApp verification code with anyone, even a friend.
The prize and the job offer
You have won a phone you never entered a draw for, or a recruiter offers easy money for liking videos. If it is too good to be true, it is a scam. Do not reply, and never pay a fee to receive a prize.
If you have already tapped a link or shared details, change your passwords, call your bank straight away and turn on two-step verification. Then report the message and block the sender, so it cannot reach you again.
— MyTextStory
All postsSecurityAug 17, 20268 min read
Scam messages have become very convincing. They use real logos, real-looking links and a sense of urgency that makes you act before you think. These are the five kinds we see most, and how to tell them apart from the real thing.
The fake delivery
A text says a parcel could not be delivered and asks you to pay a small fee or confirm your address through a link. Real couriers rarely ask for payment by text. Check the tracking number on the courier's own website or app instead of tapping the link.
The “Hi Mum” message
A message from an unknown number says it is your son or daughter with a new phone, and soon asks for money for an urgent bill. Always call the old number, or ask a question only your family would know, before you send anything.
“If a message makes you feel rushed or scared, that is exactly the moment to slow down.
The bank alert
A message warns of a suspicious payment and asks you to log in or call a number. Your bank will never ask for your PIN, your password or a one-time code. Hang up, and call the number printed on the back of your card.
And never share a WhatsApp verification code with anyone, even a friend.
The prize and the job offer
You have won a phone you never entered a draw for, or a recruiter offers easy money for liking videos. If it is too good to be true, it is a scam. Do not reply, and never pay a fee to receive a prize.
If you have already tapped a link or shared details, change your passwords, call your bank straight away and turn on two-step verification. Then report the message and block the sender, so it cannot reach you again.
— MyTextStory
All posts