Scam texts in the US: how to spot and report them
Most US scam texts copy USPS, a toll agency, the IRS or your bank. Here's what they look like and where to report them.
Common scams in the US
- USPS package on hold
"Your package can't be delivered due to an incomplete address", with a link to pay a small redelivery fee.
The tell: Check your tracking number yourself at usps.com. The link is there to take your card details.
More about this scam - Unpaid toll
"You have an outstanding toll of $6.99. Pay now to avoid a late fee", with a link.
The tell: Check your balance on your toll agency's own website or app. Never use the link.
More about this scam - IRS refund or penalty
"You're due a refund" or "you owe back taxes", asking for personal details or payment.
The tell: The IRS doesn't contact you by text to ask for personal or financial information.
- Bank fraud alert
"Did you make a $500 purchase? Reply NO", then a call from "your bank" asking for a code.
The tell: Hang up and call the number on the back of your card. Never read out a code someone texted you.
- "Wrong number" that turns friendly
"Hi, is this Sarah?", then weeks of friendly chat, then an investment or crypto "opportunity".
The tell: A stranger who steers the chat towards money is running a script. Stop replying.
Already clicked, paid or shared details?
If you've paid or given card details, call your bank or card issuer right away on the number on your card.
Where to report it in the US
- Scam or spam text: forward it to 7726 (SPAM) and report at ReportFraud.ftc.gov
Contacts checked on each organisation's own website, September 2026.
Warning signs, anywhere
- It's urgent: your account closes today, a parcel is returned tonight, the police are on their way.
- It has a link to pay a small fee, or to "confirm" your details.
- It asks for a PIN, password or one-time code. No real organisation needs these from you.
- A family member is texting from a new number and needs money now.
- It's too good to be true: a prize you didn't enter, a job with no interview, money that doubles.
- It wants payment in gift cards, crypto or a transfer to a "safe" account.
- It asks you to keep it secret, or not to tell your bank.
What to do with a message you're not sure about
- Don't click the link, reply, or call the number in the message.
- Check for yourself: open the company's own app, or type its website address yourself.
- If it claims to be family, call them on the number you already have.
- Report it (below), then delete it.
Help someone else avoid it
Scams work best on people who haven't seen them before. Share this guide with your family or group chat.
Not sure? Ask Alice
Paste the message into a chat and choose "Is this a scam?". Alice lists the warning signs she can see, gives a verdict, and tells you where to report it. Leave out your own account numbers — she never needs them.
General guidance, not legal or financial advice. If money has already gone, contact your bank first.