Hang Up, Don’t Get Hooked: How to Outsmart Phone and Text Fraud in 2025
By: DaySun Tech Correspondent
Your phone buzzes — a text from your bank warning of “suspicious activity.” You click the link, anxious to secure your account… and just like that, a scammer has your personal information. Sound familiar? You’re not alone.
Phone and text fraud — also known as “smishing” (SMS phishing) and “vishing” (voice phishing) — is one of the fastest-growing scams in America. In 2024 alone, the Federal Trade Commission reported billions in losses tied to fraudulent calls and messages. Maryland, with its high-tech economy and older population, has been a particular target. But here’s the good news: with a few smart habits, you can keep your data — and your money — safe.
1. Know the Red Flags
Fraudsters thrive on fear and urgency. They’ll pretend to be from your bank, Amazon, the IRS, or even your utility company, claiming there’s a problem that needs “immediate action.” Common warning signs include:
- Messages with urgent language (“Act now!” “Your account will be suspended!”)
- Suspicious links or numbers you don’t recognize
- Requests for personal details, like your Social Security number or login credentials
- Calls that use recorded voices or spoofed numbers that look local
If something feels off, trust your gut. Legitimate companies rarely — if ever — ask for personal or payment info over text or phone.
2. Don’t Engage, Verify Instead
The best defense? Don’t reply and don’t click. Hang up or ignore the message, then verify the claim yourself. Call your bank or company directly using a verified phone number — not the one provided in the suspicious message.
If the caller claims to be from a government agency, remember: the IRS, Social Security Administration, and Medicare don’t contact people by phone demanding money or personal data. Ever.
3. Use Technology to Fight Back
Your smartphone is smart — make sure you’re using all its tools.
- Block unknown callers or silence them automatically. Both iPhones and Androids have built-in call-filtering features.
- Install a reputable call-filtering app like Hiya, True caller, or Nanorobot to identify and block spam calls.
- Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your accounts so even if a scammer gets your password, they can’t easily access your data.
- Keep your software updated. Many scams exploit outdated operating systems to sneak in malware.
4. Be Text-Savvy
Texts are the new scam frontier. Watch out for short links (like bit.ly) or messages that look legitimate but contain subtle errors in spelling or grammar.
Never respond “STOP” or “UNSUBSCRIBE” to unknown senders — that only confirms your number is active. Instead, report the text to your carrier by forwarding it to 7726 (SPAM). Then delete it immediately.
5. Protect Your Personal Info Like Gold
Treat your personal information — especially your phone number — as carefully as your credit card. Avoid posting it publicly on social media and think twice before entering it on unfamiliar websites.
If you think you’ve been targeted, contact your bank immediately and file a report with the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
6. Spread the Word
Fraud prevention works best when everyone’s in the loop. Talk to your friends, parents, or anyone who might be more vulnerable — especially seniors, who are often prime targets. A five-minute conversation could save someone thousands of dollars.
Stay Smart, Stay Skeptical
In a world where scams evolve as fast as technology, vigilance is your best protection. Think before you click, question before you share, and remember legitimate companies won’t pressure you to act on fear.
So, the next time your phone rings with a “can’t-miss deal” or a “fraud alert,” take a breath — and hang up. Staying safe starts with staying smart.
Photo:AdobeStock
