Text message scams (IRS, Medicare, Amazon, banks)
The text says a package is waiting or your account is locked. Here's how to check it.
Smishing - scams by text
Text scams are short and urgent. A package is 'waiting,' your account is 'locked,' or you owe the IRS. The link leads to a fake page that steals your info or installs something bad.
Common text scams:
- 'Your package is on hold - pay $1.99 to redeliver'
- 'Your bank account is locked - verify here'
- 'You owe the IRS - act now'
- 'Your Medicare benefits need confirmation'
How to stay safe
- Don't tap links in unexpected texts, even if they look real.
- Go to the company's app or website yourself.
- The IRS, Medicare, and banks don't ask for gift cards or wire transfers by text.
- If a text mentions a package, check your real delivery app instead.
If you already tapped
- Don't enter anything. Close the page.
- If you entered info, contact the real company using a number you already know.
- Delete the text and block the sender.
A real message can wait for you to verify it the right way. A scam can't.
Is this text message a scam?
Treat unexpected texts that demand immediate action as suspicious, especially if they link to an unfamiliar website, ask for payment, or request an account code. A familiar sender name is not proof: phone numbers and sender details can be spoofed.
Quick check: Instead of replying or using the link, open the company's official app or independently find its contact information. For delivery notices, check the tracking number through the carrier's real website.
Related: Learn how phishing emails work.