The Rise of Text Message Scams: How to Spot a Fake Before You Tap

The Rise of Text Message Scams: How to Spot a Fake Before You Tap

Text message scams—known as smishing—have become one of the fastestgrowing forms of digital fraud. Scammers know that people trust their phones, respond quickly to texts, and often don't pause to verify the source. For bank customers, this can create real risk.

What Smishing Looks Like Today

Smishing attempts often appear to come from trusted sources: your bank, a delivery service, a government agency, or even a coworker. Messages may claim:

  • "Your account is locked—verify now."
  • "Unusual activity detected. Tap to secure your account."
  • "Your package is delayed. Update your information."

These messages are designed to create urgency so you act before thinking.

Red Flags to Watch For:

  • Unknown or shortened links
  • Urgent or threatening language
  • Misspellings or odd phrasing
  • Requests for personal or financial information
  • Numbers that don't match official contact information

If something feels off, it probably is.

How Scammers Target Bank Customers

Fraudsters know that financial messages get attention. They may impersonate your bank, mortgage servicer, or even a banker. Their goal is to get you to click a link that steals your login credentials or installs malware.

How to Protect Yourself:

  • Never click a link from an unexpected text.
  • Contact Red River Bank using a verified phone number or website.
  • Delete suspicious messages immediately.
  • Enable multifactor authentication on your accounts.

Remember: Red River Bank will never ask for personal information through an unsolicited text message, especially through a link.

What to Do If You Receive a Suspicious Text

  • Do not respond.
  • Do not click any links.
  • Contact Red River Bank to confirm whether the message was legitimate.

Report scams to your local authorities and Red River Bank at 866-561-4090.

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