Scam text messages are common and can look convincing. Use the calm checks below — no jargon, no rush.
1) Look at who the message is from
Real companies usually appear under a named sender such as NHS, Royal Mail, Barclays or Tesco.
Scam messages often come from random mobile numbers, short codes you don’t recognise, or names that look almost right (e.g. R0yalMa1l with numbers).
Key takeaway
- If the sender looks strange or “almost right”, pause and continue the checks below.
2) Be careful with urgent or threatening language
Scams try to make you panic so you act quickly. Watch for phrases like:
- “Final warning” or “Immediate action required”
- “Your parcel can’t be delivered unless you pay”
- “Your account will be closed today”
Legitimate organisations rarely threaten you by text.
Key takeaway
- If a text makes your stomach drop, that’s your first clue. Take your time.
3) Check for spelling or grammar mistakes
Scammers often rush or use odd wording. If it reads strangely, it’s likely fake.
Example: “Your bank acount has bene locked, click link imediately.”
Key takeaway
- Trust your instinct: if the wording feels off, treat it as suspicious.
4) Don’t click the link in the text
Most important rule: even if you think the message might be real, don’t tap the link.
- Open your web browser yourself.
- Type the company’s website address manually.
- Log in the way you normally do.
If something needs your attention, you’ll see it inside your real account.
Key takeaway
- Go to the website yourself. Never follow links from unexpected texts.
5) If you must, preview the link without opening it
Press and hold (don’t tap) the link to preview the full address. If it isn’t the company’s real website, it’s a scam.
Real (Royal Mail):
https://www.royalmail.com/track-your-item
Fake:
https://royalmail.delivery-secure-pay.com/544821
Key takeaway
- Small differences matter. If the address looks odd, treat it as a scam.
6) When in doubt — ignore the message
If it’s important, the company can write, email, or message you inside your account. You won’t get in trouble for taking your time.
Key takeaway
- It’s always okay to ignore a suspicious text and check independently later.
Quick checklist
| Question | If “yes” | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Is the sender unfamiliar or “almost right”? | Likely a scam | Do not reply; continue checks below |
| Does it feel urgent or threatening? | Likely a scam | Pause; visit the real website yourself |
| Are there spelling/grammar mistakes? | Likely a scam | Treat as suspicious; don’t click anything |
| Is there a link to “fix” something? | Likely a scam | Never tap the link; type the site manually |
If you already clicked the link
Stay calm — it happens. If you didn’t enter any details, you’re likely fine. Just delete the message.
If you did enter information, call your bank using the number on the back of your card (not any number from the text). Explain what happened; they’ll guide you kindly and without judgement.
Key takeaway
- Don’t feel embarrassed. Get help quickly and you’ll be supported.
You’re doing the right thing by checking first. Learning how to spot fake messages is something we all do step by step. Take your time — there’s no rush here.