How to Spot a Scam Text — Even If It Looks Like It’s From Your Bank
You’re standing in line at the grocery store when your phone buzzes.
“Chase: We’ve detected suspicious activity. Tap here to confirm your identity.”
The sender looks familiar. It’s in the same thread where you’ve received real alerts before—about deposits, payments, or your monthly statement.
But this message? It’s not real. It’s a scam—and it could cost you more than just your account login.
What’s happening behind the scenes
This type of fraud is known as SMS phishing, or smishing. And it's become one of the most common—and convincing—forms of digital scams.
The technique behind it is called SMS spoofing. Scammers make their texts appear as if they’re coming from trusted senders like Bank of America, Wells Fargo, or Capital One. Because there’s no robust authentication on standard SMS protocols, your phone may place the message in the same conversation thread as legitimate updates from your bank. This gives the message instant credibility.
The text usually carries a sense of urgency:
“Account locked due to suspicious login. Tap here.”
“Zelle transfer of $1,500 initiated. Cancel here.”
“Unusual activity detected. Verify now.”
It’s designed to make you panic—and click.
Looks real. Acts real. Isn’t real.
Scammers have gotten better. Gone are the days of broken English and shady-looking links.
Now the messages are polished, the links look legitimate (bankofamerica-security.com instead of bankofamerica.com), and the fake websites often mimic real login pages down to the fonts and colors.
Even seasoned users can be fooled.
What you should do instead
If you receive a suspicious text—even if it appears in a familiar message thread—take these steps:
Don’t click the link. Ever.
Don’t respond to the text. Even a “STOP” can confirm your number is active.
Use your bank’s official mobile app or call the number on the back of your card to check your account status.
Report the message by forwarding it to 7726 (SPAM) — a service supported by all major U.S. carriers.
Share this with your family — it matters
Scammers often target those least familiar with digital traps: older adults, teenagers, busy parents. Take a moment this weekend to talk about it.
If your dad gets a “Citibank” text, would he know it’s a scam? Does your daughter know that legitimate companies don’t send clickable links asking for personal details?
The best protection is open conversation.
Final thoughts
Scam texts don’t just trick people—they imitate trust. That’s what makes them dangerous.
Instead of relying on how real something looks, slow down. Ask yourself: Would my bank really text me to fix this? Or would they expect me to log in securely on my own?
That moment of doubt is what keeps you safe.
About AKATI Sekurity
As a global cybersecurity services company, AKATI Sekurity empowers businesses and families to protect what matters most. We believe security doesn’t have to be complex—it just has to be clear, consistent, and community-minded. Visit www.akati.com/cyber-hygiene to learn more.
