Scams Texts
Texts scam · added Oct 16, 2026
"Sorry, wrong number" is exactly what they want.
A friendly text to the wrong person turns into a new friend, then a crypto pitch.
JessicaText message
Recreation
Spot the tell. Tap the part that gives this scam away.
The tell
Hi, is this Emma? It's Jessica from the dinner last week!
A real wrong number says sorry and disappears. A scammer keeps talking and wants to be your friend.
Example from our recreation.
How it works
- A text arrives for someone else, like "Hi, is this Emma?"
- You reply politely. The stranger keeps talking and gets friendly.
- Weeks later they bring up crypto and ask you to open an account on their platform. Whatever you put in is gone.
What to do
- Don't reply, not even to say "wrong number."
- Delete it and tap Report Junk, or forward it to 7726 (SPAM).
Already fell for it?
If a new online friend brings up investing, stop. Already sent money? Call your bank now, then report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
What to do if you were scammedThe numbers
Watch it
This scam is on The Tell as a short video. YouTube, TikTok or Instagram.
Sources
Checked Oct 16, 2026.
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