Indiana Attorney General Warns Hoosiers of Text Message Scams
If you are receiving a lot of fishy text messages, don't worry...you're not alone. That's why Attorney General Todd Rokita is warning Hoosiers about text message scams.
There are so many possibilities when it comes to ways people can get scammed nowadays. You could get a threatening phone call from a scammer, phishing email scams, social media scams, and even text message scams. It's honestly kind of scary, especially for the elderly, who typically fall victim more often. These scammers have gotten very creative throughout the years. It's hard to not only keep up with them, but it has gotten even harder to decipher what is legit and what is a scam.
Recently, I have been receiving some strange text messages from someone named Gary, and it asks me to either reply or click on the link within the text. Since my name isn't Gary, and I know the signs of these kinds of scams, I simply delete and report junk. However, that doesn't stop them from still sending me text messages. It has gotten pretty bad over the past month. I've even blocked the number, but I receive the same messages from other numbers. It's certain that I am not the only one getting all kinds of text message scams, which is why the Indiana Attorney General released a warning to Hoosiers about these kinds of scams.
Indiana's Attorney General Issues Warning to Hoosiers About Text Message Scams
According to a Press Release from Indiana Attorney General, Todd Rokita:
“Today’s world revolves around our phones, and scammers know it,” Attorney General Rokita said. “Hoosiers can protect themselves by being vigilant and knowing the signs when they receive fishy texts.”
So, how do you make sure you are avoiding being scammed? The Office of the Indiana Attorney General offers these few tips:
If you think a text might be a scam, contact the company using a phone number or website you know is real.
Blocking or using restricted phone settings is an easy way to stop spam text messages.
Don’t share any personal information over text. This is not a secure method of communication, and legitimate services won't ask for personal information through text messages.
Put a freeze on your credit to prevent new accounts from being opened in your name in the event of a breach.
Don't respond to spam texts. This allows scammers to know your account is active.
Report text scams. Forward them to 7726 (SPAM). This helps your wireless provider spot and block similar messages.
If you believe you have been the victim of a scam, file a complaint at www.indianaconsumer.com with Attorney General Rokita’s office.