A text from an unknown number with a link: how to tell if it's a scam
You get an unexpected text with a link: a parcel, your bank, a toll or a fine. Learn how to spot smishing before you tap.
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A text from an unknown number with a link: how to tell if it's a scam
"Your parcel is on hold", "your account will be blocked", "you have an unpaid toll"... followed by a link. Smishing (phishing by text message) is one of the scams spreading fastest, and reports from the NoCall community bear that out: when an unexpected text arrives with a link, the rule is to be suspicious first and check afterwards.
1. The 4 signs of smishing
- You weren't expecting it: you haven't ordered a parcel or started any process.
- It rushes you: "within 24 hours", "final notice", "account blocked immediately".
- The sender doesn't add up: a personal mobile number instead of the name of the bank or company.
- It asks for details or a payment: no bank or public body asks for passwords by text.
2. Check the link without tapping it
Press and hold the link to see the full address without opening it. Be wary of misspelt or lookalike domains (such as "anp0st" or "revenue-refund"), link shorteners and odd endings. If in doubt, open the official app or type the address in yourself: never use the link in the text.
3. If you've already tapped
Don't enter any details, and close the page. If you gave bank details, ring your bank as soon as possible; if you installed an app, remove it and run a security scan.
4. Report the text
Report it to your mobile operator (check its website or app for how it takes reports of scam texts), block the sender and report it on NoCall with a screenshot to warn other users. If you've lost money, report it at your local Garda station.
How do I know if a text with a link is a scam?
Be suspicious if you weren't expecting it, it puts you under pressure ("your account will be blocked"), the sender is a personal mobile number or the link points to a strange domain. Banks and public bodies never ask for passwords by text.
I've tapped a suspicious link: what do I do?
Don't enter any details, close the page and don't download any files. If you gave bank details, ring your bank immediately; if you installed an app, remove it and run a security scan.
Where do I report a scam text?
Report it to your mobile operator through the route it provides, report it on NoCall with a screenshot and, if you've lost money, report it to the Gardaí at your local Garda station.
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Article details
Editorial content reviewed by NoCall with practical context for spotting suspicious calls and messages.
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