What to Do With Text Message Spam

We’ve all received those annoying spam text messages claiming “your account has been compromised” or that “you have won a $100 gift card”, but what should you do with these messages?

Here are the do’s and don’ts of dealing with text message spam.

Do’s

• Do forward the text message to 7726 (SPAM on most keypads). This alerts your cell phone carrier to the spam.  This option works for most cell carriers, including: Verizon, AT&T, Sprint, and T-Mobile.
• Do delete the text message once you have forwarded it to your cell phone carrier’s spam department.
• Do review your cell phone providers spam controls and options.
• Do limit where you post your phone number on the internet. Spammers have been known to use software to troll the internet for phone numbers.

Don'ts

• Don’t reply to the message. Don’t respond to instructions to text “stop” or “no”. Doing so lets the scammers know they have a live, active person.
• Don’t click on links in the text message. They are probably fraudulent.
• Don’t call phone numbers contained in the text message.

In closing, remember most legitimate companies will never ask for your personal information via text message. If you ever question the legitimacy of the text message, just contact the company directly via the contact information you have for them.