Scam Texts and Phone Calls: How to Tell When It’s Not Really Your Bank or Tech Support
Scam texts and fake phone calls are the oldest and most successful online tricks — because they work on fear, not technology.
They don’t need malware or hacking. They just need you to respond.
You’ve probably seen a message like this:
“Suspicious charge on your account. Click here to cancel.”
Or maybe you’ve gotten a call from “Microsoft,” “Apple,” or even your own bank.
Let’s break down how these scams work — and how to protect yourself.
Example 1 — The “Unauthorized Purchase” Text
“ALERT: $1,099 charge on your VISA. If you didn’t make this purchase, click here to cancel.”
⚠️ Why this is a scam
- Real banks don’t send clickable links in random texts.
- The URL is often shortened or slightly misspelled (e.g., visa-secure.com.xyz).
- The goal is to get you to click and enter your card info.
💡 What’s really happening
The scammer sends mass texts through cheap SMS gateways. The link opens a fake login page that captures your credentials or card details.
✅ What to do next
- Don’t click the link.
- Log in to your bank or card provider directly.
- Call the number on your card — not the one in the text.
- Report the message as spam to your carrier (e.g., forward to 7726 in the U.S.).
Example 2 — The “Tech Support” Phone Call
“Hello, this is John from Microsoft Support. We’ve detected viruses on your computer. Please open your Event Viewer and read me the errors.”
⚠️ Why this is a scam
- Microsoft, Apple, and Google never call customers about infections.
- The caller uses fake urgency to get remote access or payment.
💡 What’s really happening
The scammer calls random numbers, claiming to be from a trusted company. They guide you into installing remote-control software, then “find” fake problems.
✅ What to do next
- Hang up immediately.
- Don’t allow remote access or share any codes.
- If you already gave access, disconnect from the internet and contact PCRescue for cleanup.
Example 3 — “We Need to Verify Your Account”
“Apple ID login attempt detected. Provide the 6-digit code we just sent to verify your account.”
⚠️ Why this is a scam
- The scammer triggered the real 2FA code from your account.
- If you give it to them, they gain full access.
💡 What’s really happening
They’re trying to log in right now — they just need your code to finish.
✅ What to do next
- Don’t share verification codes.
- Change your password immediately.
- Enable passwordless login or an authenticator app for extra safety.
Example 4 — The “Missed Delivery” Text
“Your package is waiting for delivery. Click to reschedule: [tracking-company.xyz]”
or "Your package cannot be delivered due to incorrect address information. Click here to confirm your information."
⚠️ Why this is a scam
- The Post Office doesn't have your address, but they have your phone?
- These messages install malware or collect card info.
💡 What’s really happening
A fake tracking page collects personal info or infects your phone with malicious apps.
✅ What to do next
- Check your real tracking info from the carrier’s website.
- Never install apps or pay from a link in a text.
🧠 Pro Tip: The Two Golden Rules
- Never act on fear. Real companies don’t use panic to get you to act.
- Verify through official sources. Type the website yourself or call known numbers.
If someone calls or texts you about money, security, or your computer, slow down.
Ask yourself, “Did I contact them first?” If not, hang up and check it independently.
If you’ve received a suspicious text or call, don’t respond — forward it to support@pcrescue.me or schedule a free checkup.
We’ll tell you if it’s real and help secure your accounts.