Police warn iPhone and Android users to immediately delete and report if you receive this text
Authorities are warning phone users about a dangerous scam involving fake texts that appear to be from law enforcement or government agencies. The Hampden County Sheriff’s Office in Massachusetts shared a warning on Facebook after reports of scam texts claiming to be part of an ongoing investigation.
The message typically says something like, “This call is to notify you that this is our second attempt to serve you a notice of action pertaining to an investigation being finalized against you.” It urges the recipient to call back immediately to avoid “further legal action” and includes a fake case number to make it seem legitimate.
Sheriff Nick Cocchi emphasized that these texts are designed to scare people into acting without thinking. He warned that law enforcement will never call, text, or email to demand money, resolve a warrant, or conduct official business.
Even if the message appears to come from a legitimate agency, scammers can fake the sender’s ID using online tools. Cocchi advised people to delete such messages and report them, rather than engaging with the sender.
Similar scams have been reported in other parts of the U.S., including North Carolina, where fake texts claim recipients owe money for unpaid tolls. These messages often threaten increased charges or legal action if the toll isn’t paid within 12 hours.
Security experts, like Steve Grobman from McAfee, warn that scammers exploit fear and urgency to trick people. They advise against clicking on any links in suspicious messages and recommend verifying claims independently instead.
The key takeaway is to stay cautious and skeptical of unexpected messages, especially those demanding immediate action or payment. Always verify the information through official channels and avoid sharing personal details or clicking on links in unsolicited texts.
Sharing these warnings with friends and family, especially those who may be more vulnerable to scams, can help protect others from falling victim to these schemes.
