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Don’t Text Back! The Friendly “Stranger” Smishing Scam

Cybercriminals are sliding into your messages — here’s how to stay safe. 

In this week’s scam alert, a simple “Hey, how are you?” text can turn into a costly situation. 📱 

It starts with a message from a number you don’t recognize. Maybe it says something like, “Are you coming to the BBQ later?” or “Long time no talk!” It feels friendly… and harmless. So, you reply. 

That’s exactly what the scammer wants. 

This isn’t a wrong number — it’s a phishing tactic called smishing (SMS phishing). The goal? Gain your trust and then convince you to invest in a “can’t-lose” money-making opportunity. Typically, the scammer will hype up investments like cryptocurrency or gold and direct you to a specific website or app to deposit funds. 

Here’s the ugly truth:
There is no opportunity.
There are no guaranteed profits.
There is a scammer waiting to take your money and disappear. 

We want our Burbank comm-U-nity to stay safe, smart, and scam-proof. So before you text back… think twice! 

How to protect yourself from smishing scams: 

  • Don’t reply to texts from unknown numbers.
    Responding confirms your number is real — and makes U a target for more scams. 
  • Watch for “guaranteed” investment promises.
    Legitimate investments always involve risk — zero-risk returns = 🚩🚩🚩 
  • Never send money, crypto, or gift cards to someone you haven’t met in person.
    If they vanish after you pay, your money goes with them. 

Staying alert keeps your personal info — and your wallet — protected.
At UMe, we always have U and your safety in mind! 

Source: U.S. Federal Trade Commission (consumer.ftc.gov) 

Disclaimer: U matter to Me (to all of us) at UMe — and that’s why we do our best to deliver helpful information on our blog. Please note the following: (1) UMe Credit Union works hard to make certain that the information we post here is as accurate as humanly possible. But as you know, information can change and evolve quickly. While we try to update the blog on a regular basis, the content of some older posts may not be correct or up-to-date. (2) Some destinations on the World Wide Web that we link you to will exist on external websites. UMe Credit Union does not officially endorse any connected sites, nor do/did we compensate or get compensated by any entities to be featured in our posts (unless otherwise noted). (3) Everyone’s situation is unique and we advise you to consult with our personal bankers or your finance, tax, or legal professional for advice individualized to you!