Fighting Fraud
By Better Business Bureau Serving Greater Cleveland
Better Business Bureau® (BBB) has been receiving reports from consumers receiving unsolicited text messages offering discounts, gifts and free offers. While most people love a good deal, scammers often use this information to their advantage. Con artists impersonate well-known companies like Walmart, Amazon, Costco, and USPS to make their claims seem more legitimate. Text messages consumers have received include discounts, refunds and COVID-19 messages. Some examples of text messages that consumers have received include the following tactics:
- “COVID-19 REFUND. VERIZON COMPANY is giving out $950 to all users of our Verizon service, If yes kindly text your Verizon”
- “Due to the pandemic, Hulu is giving everyone a free 1-year subscription to help you stay at home. Get yours here [link].
- “AT&T… Sorry for the coverage issues… Here’s a little gift: [link]”
To avoid being a victim of text message scams, Better Business Bureau has the following tips:
- Use caution when opening messages from unknown senders. If you receive a message from a number you don’t recognize, be careful. Many companies engage in SMS marketing, but keep in mind that consumers must opt in to receive messages. If you haven’t given a company permission to text you, it’s probably a scam.
- Don’t click unknown links from strangers. Scammers often send shortened links that don’t let you see where they really lead in the body of their text message. If you click the link, you could be directed to a dangerous website, or you could download malware onto your device.
- Confirm deals directly with the company before you accept. If you are really hoping the deal is legitimate, go to the company’s official website and send them an email or call to inquire. The company can let you know if the deal is real or not.
- Install antivirus software on your computer and mobile devices. This kind of scam can come from text messages or emails. Antivirus software can scan for malware and alert you before you open a malicious website link.
- Report the messages. Help fight fraud by forwarding suspicious messages to the company who is being impersonated. You can also report scams to BBB.org/ScamTracker.
Questions? Reach out to your BBB at 216.413.5232 or email [email protected]. For more news and tips visit BBB.org.
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