The problem
Scam texts are designed to look legitimate — fake delivery notices, bank alerts, prize notifications, and government warnings. They try to create urgency so you click a link or share personal information.
The challenge is recognizing a scam before you act. Once you click a link or reply, the scammer knows your number is active and may target you again.
Why it happens
Scammers use auto-dialers to blast thousands of numbers at once. They often spoof legitimate numbers or use official-sounding language to appear credible.
Your number may have been leaked in a data breach or sold on the dark web, making it a target for scam campaigns.
What you can do
- 1Don't click links or reply to suspicious texts
- 2Don't share personal information, passwords, or payment details
- 3Screenshot the message and note the sender and date
- 4Report scam texts to your carrier by forwarding to 7726 (SPAM)
How CivicShield helps
Check. Document. Manage. Follow Up.
The four-step system for managing unwanted contact.
Check
Assess the message
Document
Record the details
Manage
Organize and opt out
Follow Up
Track and review
Frequently asked questions
Can CivicShield tell me if a text is a scam?
CivicShield's free checker helps you identify potential warning signs, but it cannot definitively determine if a message is a scam. Always use caution with unknown senders.
Should I reply STOP to a scam text?
No. Replying confirms your number is active. Don't reply to suspicious messages. Use CivicShield to document the message instead.
What should I do if I clicked a link in a scam text?
Don't enter any information. If you already entered personal details, contact your bank or the relevant institution immediately. Document what happened in CivicShield.