Customer Alert - Is It A Long Lost Friend Or A Scammer?

The FTC recently issued a consumer alert about one of the latest ways scammers are trying to get your attention — by texting to ask when you're free to catch up over a cup of coffee. Scammers are hoping you'll think the text is from a long lost friend and reply with questions, or tell the sender they have the wrong number.

Either way, your response lets the scammer know your phone number works, which could lead to more calls and texts. They might apologize for the wrong number, then pitch you a scam — maybe by asking if you're interested in learning about a secret way to make big money using cryptocurrency.

According to the FTC, here's how to handle these situations:

• Don't respond to unexpected text messages like this from unknown phone numbers. Some messages from unknown numbers might be legit, but this isn't your doctor's office confirming an upcoming appointment. Copy the message and forward it to 7726 (SPAM). This helps your wireless provider spot and block similar messages in the future.
• Don't click on links in unexpected text messages. They might steal your information or install malware on your device. Scammers want you to react quickly to unexpected text messages, but it's best to stop and check it out. Or just delete it.

If you spot a scam, you can report it to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.