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SMS Scams (Smishing) — Complete Guide
Recognize fraudulent texts about deliveries, bank alerts, and government notices. Report smishing to carriers and regulators.
Last updated: 2026-07-02
Why SMS scams work
Text messages feel personal and urgent. Smishing uses short links, spoofed sender IDs, and package delivery pretexts to steal credentials or install malware.
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Fake Delivery and Package Texts
USPS, UPS, FedEx, and Amazon delivery smishing patterns.
Fake Bank Alert Texts
Fraudulent "unusual activity" texts that link to credential theft.
Government Impersonation Texts
Fake IRS, SSA, and DMV texts demanding immediate action.
2FA Intercept and OTP Theft
Scammers trick you into sharing one-time codes to hijack accounts.
Report Smishing to Your Carrier
Forward scam texts to 7726 (SPAM) on major US carriers.