Watch out for these 6 words in text messages to avoid having a run-in with a money-stealing scam
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According to US Federal Trade Commission's Consumer Sentinel database 2023, there were 358,428 reports of email scams which led to people losing $430 million in 2023
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The report claims that text scams were one of the top contributors to money lost due to fraud in 2023
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The report states that text scams show up as imposters pretending to be a real business such as your bank and request information from you
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The links in smishing scams often contain malicious code that can encrypt your files and lock your phone
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Here is a breakdown of scam words popping up in texts
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Getting a text message saying that you have a package waiting for you might seem tempting, but do not click on the link
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Hackers often act as trusted institutions like your bank to sway you into giving up your password, PIN, or other personal credentials
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Text messages claiming that you've won a 'major award' or 'cash prize' should not be entertained
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FTC says people should be aware of messages or calls coming from these area codes: 268, 284, 473, 664, 649, 767, 809, 829, 849, and 876
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Text messages claiming your 'debit card is locked due to suspicious activity' may sound scary but should not be entertained at all
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It's best to take a second before clicking 'The FedEx package you've been waiting for is delivered'