SMS phishing (smishing)

Scam links delivered by text message — usually about packages or banking.

How it works

An unexpected text claims you have a delivery on hold, a small fee due, or a fraud alert on your card. The link leads to a payment page or a fake bank login.

Red flags

Unknown sender or shortcode
USPS / FedEx / UPS notice without a tracking number you recognize
Tiny shipping fee request ($1.99, $2.99)
Shortened link (bit.ly, t.co)

Real-world example

"USPS: Your package is on hold due to an incomplete address. Confirm here: bit.ly/usps-hold-2k4"

What to do

01Don't tap the link. Look up real tracking numbers on the carrier's website.
02Report the message: forward to 7726 (SPAM) in the US.
03Block and delete the sender.

Related scams

Email phishing

Fake emails impersonating brands to steal credentials.

Fake package delivery

Pretends to be a delivery service to harvest payment info.

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