Phishing Text Scams: How to Spot Them and Protect Yourself 

Imagine this: You're sipping your morning coffee, scrolling through your phone, when a text message pops up—

"MAINE STATE C.U: Your E-pay of $870.00 has been processed. If this is not you, go to http://fakescammyloginpage12412asf.online to cancel."

Panic sets in. You don't remember making this payment. Your first instinct? Click the link and fix the issue immediately.

Stop right there! This is precisely what scammers want you to do.

How to Spot a Phishing Text Scam

Scammers use urgent, alarming messages to make you act without thinking. Here's how to recognize a fake text:

• Unexpected Alerts – If you didn't make a payment or request an account update, be suspicious.
• Sense of Urgency—Phrases like "Act now, or your account will be locked!" are designed to make you panic.
• Suspicious Links – Fake URLs often contain random characters, misspellings, or unfamiliar domains. Legitimate institutions won't ask you to log in using a random link.
• Generic Messages – If the text doesn't address you by name and contains vague information, it's likely a scam.
• Unfamiliar Sender – Banks and credit unions will contact you through official channels, not random numbers.

What To Do If You Get a Suspicious Text

• Don't Click Any Links – Scammers create fake login pages that steal personal information.
• Check Your Account Directly—Login through your financial institution's official app or website, not through text.
• Call Your Bank or Credit Union – Use the number listed on their website, not the one in the text, to verify if there's an issue.
• Report the Scam—Forward the message to your bank or the FTC (7726 for spam texts).
• Delete the message – Once reported, remove it from your phone to avoid accidental clicks later.

Stay Safe: Think Before You Click

Scammers rely on fear and urgency to trick people. You can protect yourself and your financial security by staying alert and following these steps.

Remember: Your bank or credit union will never text you for sensitive information. When in doubt, verify before you act.