Is this text a scam? How to tell
Seven warning signs that a text message is a scam, and what to do next. Check a message free: paste it in and get one clear answer.
Last updated November 7, 2026
A text arrives. It says your package is stuck, your bank account is locked, or someone you love needs help. You are not sure. This page gives you a few quick questions to ask, in order.
Seven warning signs
- It rushes you. "Act now," "within 24 hours," "your account will be closed." Real companies give you time.
- It asks for a payment you cannot undo. Gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency and payment apps are the usual ones.
- It asks for a code. A six-digit code sent to your phone belongs to you. Nobody who texts you out of the blue needs it.
- It has a link you did not ask for. Shortened links and strange web addresses hide where you are really going.
- It says "do not tell anyone." Secrecy is how a scam keeps your family from helping.
- It pretends to be someone official. Your bank, a delivery company, a government office, tech support.
- It comes from a number you do not know, but says it is a person you do, like a grandchild with a new phone.
What to do
- Do not tap the link, call the number in the text, or reply.
- Look up the company yourself. Use the number on your card, your bill, or the company's own website.
- Ask someone you trust. A second pair of eyes catches what one person misses.
- If you already paid or shared a code, go to what to do if you have been scammed right away.
A real bank or delivery company will not be upset if you hang up and call back on a number you looked up yourself.
What a check can and cannot tell you
PonchoGuard reads the message for these warning signs and gives one answer: Scam, Suspicious or Looks OK, with one reason and one next step. A check is a second opinion, not a verdict from a court. Looks OK is never a promise. Scammers change their tricks, so if anyone asks for money, codes or passwords, check with your family anyway.