5 signs a text message is a scam
How to tell if a text is a scam
Not every suspicious text is obvious. Modern scammers use sophisticated techniques that can fool even tech-savvy people. Here are five reliable signs that a text message is likely a scam.
1. Urgency language
Scam texts almost always create a false sense of urgency:
- "Your account will be suspended in 24 hours"
- "Act now to avoid penalties"
- "Immediate action required"
Why it works: Urgency bypasses your rational thinking. When you feel rushed, you're more likely to click without checking.
What to do: Legitimate organisations give you reasonable timeframes. If a message demands immediate action, slow down and verify independently.
2. Suspicious links
Look carefully at any URLs in the message:
- Misspelled domains (e.g.,
commbank-secure.cominstead ofcommbank.com.au) - Shortened links (bit.ly, tinyurl) that hide the real destination
- Domains that don't match the claimed sender
What to do: Never click links in unexpected texts. Instead, open your browser and navigate to the organisation's website directly.
3. Impersonation of trusted organisations
Scammers commonly impersonate:
- Banks — Commonwealth Bank, NAB, Westpac, ANZ
- Government agencies — ATO, myGov, Centrelink
- Delivery services — Australia Post, DHL, FedEx
- Telcos — Telstra, Optus, Vodafone
What to do: These organisations will never ask for passwords, PINs, or payment via text. Contact them directly using the number on your card or their official website.
4. Requests for personal information
Any text asking you to provide or "verify" the following is almost certainly a scam:
- Passwords or PINs
- Bank account or credit card numbers
- Tax file numbers
- Medicare numbers
What to do: Never share personal information via text message, even if the sender appears legitimate.
5. Too good to be true
Prize notifications, unexpected refunds, and lottery winnings are classic scam bait:
- "You've won a $500 gift card!"
- "A refund of $247.50 is waiting for you"
- "You've been selected for a special offer"
What to do: If you didn't enter a competition or request a refund, it's a scam. Delete the message.
When in doubt
Forward the suspicious message to Paxello for an instant AI-powered risk assessment. Within seconds, you'll know whether the message is safe or suspicious — explained in plain English, no technical knowledge required.