A text from an unknown number? Don't tap in these 3 cases

A missed delivery, an unpaid bill, a locked bank account. Scam texts look real, but the tricks are always the same.

1. It has a link you don't know: don't tap it.
2. It asks you to install an app or move to another chat app: don't.
3. It asks for a code, password or card number: never send it.

Not sure? Open the company's official app, or call a number you looked up yourself. Don't use the link or number in the text.

Report it

Forward the text to 7726 (SPAM). You can also report it to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

A setting on your iPhone

Texts from unknown senders are then kept in a separate list. This is the iOS 26 name. On iOS 18 the switch is called "Filter Unknown Senders".