SCAM Spotlight
Text Message Scams Targeting Seniors
What’s happening?
Scammers are now using text messages to trick older adults into handing over personal information, Medicare numbers, and even bank access. These “smishing” attacks (SMS + phishing) often look official, urgent, or helpful, but they’re fake, and they’re dangerous.  
What to look for
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Medicare Text Scams
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“You’re owed a Medicare refund—click to claim it.”
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“Your Medicare card needs to be reactivated.”
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These texts may use Medicare logos or official language to look real, but Medicare will never text you asking for your Medicare number, Social Security number, or bank info.
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Do not reply. Do not click. Report to 1 800 MEDICARE.
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Bank Text Scams
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“Suspicious activity on your account. Tap to verify.”
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“Your bank account has been locked. Log in now.”
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Scammers pretend to be from well-known banks like Wells Fargo, Chase, or Bank of America. These texts often link to fake websites designed to steal your login or account info.
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Close the text. Call your bank directly using the number on the back of your debit card.
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Toll Violation Text Scams
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“You have unpaid tolls. Click here to resolve before fines increase.”
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“Pay $6.47 to avoid additional toll penalties.”
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This scam tricks drivers (especially those who travel) into believing they owe fees for unpaid road tolls.
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These texts often lead to convincing but fake payment portals.
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Don’t enter your payment info. Call your state’s toll authority if you’re unsure.
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Delivery & Package Scams
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“Your FedEx delivery couldn’t be completed update info here.”
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“USPS: Package on hold. Pay $1.20 to release it.”
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These texts use real carrier names but lead to fake tracking links or credit card theft.
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Never click links in unsolicited delivery texts.
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What to Do
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Don’t click any links, even if the message looks real.
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Don’t reply, not even with “STOP.”
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Block the number on your phone.
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Report the message by forwarding it to 7726 (SPAM).
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Call the official source using a trusted number, never the one in the text.
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Medicare, banks, toll agencies, and delivery services will never text you out of the blue asking for personal or payment information. To stay protected, use a spam blocker or your phone’s built-in spam filter, and always talk to someone you trust before responding to any message that feels rushed, confusing, or suspicious.
