If you verify that a number is valid, reply with STOP to remove yourself from their distribution list. Indeed, the number I received the message from matched a number Comcast lists on its support page. I verified Comcast's number, for example, by searching for 'text from 266278' after receiving a message a few weeks ago asking if I wanted updates about an outage in my area.

Instead of quickly replying STOP to an unsolicited message, take a few seconds to look up the number online to see if a recognized organization or business uses it for text messages. One common method of opting out of receiving non-nefarious spam texts (like that restaurant offering the free milkshake) is to reply to the message with 'STOP.' It can be a quick and easy way to end messages from everything from a political campaign to your internet service provider.īut scammers use this same tool to trick you into replying to their messages, in turn letting them know that your phone number is valid and one they can target with more messages or robocalls. Scary stuff.ĭon't click on links in spam messages, and do some research before replying 'stop.' The site looks real and even redirects to the official Verizon site after the nefarious actors have taken your account credentials. Look at this fake Verizon site that was being used in phishing attempts, as covered by How To Geek. If you happen to open it, do not enter any account details or personal information. If you receive an unexpected message that includes a link, do not open it.

The object is to collect your username, password and other personal information for future use. The link then takes you to a site that may look real, but is actually fake. They'll send messages that appear to be from a legitimate company, such as your wireless carrier, bank or medical facility, and include a link asking you to verify your account information.

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