SCARS Institute’s Encyclopedia of Scams™ Published Continuously for 25 Years
What Are “Hello” Text-Message Scams?
A Type Of Relationship Scam
Text scams, also known as SMS scams or smishing (a combination of “SMS” and “phishing”), have become increasingly prevalent in the digital age. As more people rely on their mobile devices for communication and online activities, scammers have adapted their tactics to exploit this channel of communication. These scams involve the deceptive use of text messages to trick unsuspecting individuals into divulging sensitive information, making fraudulent payments, or downloading malware onto their devices. With the convenience and ubiquity of text messaging, it is crucial for individuals to be aware of the various types of text message scams, their techniques, and how to protect themselves against falling victim to these deceptive schemes. In this article, we will explore the common types of text message scams, the tactics employed by scammers, and provide guidance on how to stay vigilant and protect yourself from these fraudulent activities.
Hello Text Scams
What are they and how do they work?
- This text scam typically starts with a text message from a stranger that simply says “hello.”
- If you reply to the “Hello” text message, the scammer will then try to engage you in conversation.
- The scammer may pretend to be someone you know, or they may try to sell you something. It can also lead to a pig butchering scam or even a romance scam.
- If you give the scammer any personal information, they could use it to steal your identity, take over your accounts, or commit fraud.
- Here are some additional details about the scam:
- Scammers often use a technique called “spoofing” to make it look like the text message is coming from a legitimate number. This means that the number that shows up on your phone screen may actually be a different number than the one that the scammer is using.
- The scammers may also try to trick you into clicking on a link in the text message. This link could take you to a fake website that looks like a legitimate website, but it could actually be a scam website that is designed to steal your personal information.
- If you do click on a link in a text message, be very careful about what information you enter on the website. Don’t enter any personal information, such as your credit card number, Social Security number, or bank account number.
Avoid Hello Scams
Here are some tips to help you avoid the “hello” text message scam:
- Don’t reply to text messages from numbers you don’t recognize.
- If you do reply to a text message from a stranger, don’t give them any personal information.
- Be suspicious of any text message that asks you to click on a link.
- If you’re not sure if a text message is legitimate, you can always contact the company or organization that it claims to be from.
By following these tips, you can help to protect yourself from the “hello” text message scam.
If you receive a text message from a stranger that says “hello,” it’s best to just ignore it. Don’t reply to the text message, and don’t click on any links in the text message. By ignoring the text message, you can help to protect yourself from the scam.
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Important Information for New Scam Victims
- Please visit www.ScamVictimsSupport.org – a SCARS Website for New Scam Victims & Sextortion Victims
- Enroll in FREE SCARS Scam Survivor’s School now at www.SCARSeducation.org
- Please visit www.ScamPsychology.org – to more fully understand the psychological concepts involved in scams and scam victim recovery
If you are looking for local trauma counselors please visit counseling.AgainstScams.org or join SCARS for our counseling/therapy benefit: membership.AgainstScams.org
If you need to speak with someone now, you can dial 988 or find phone numbers for crisis hotlines all around the world here: www.opencounseling.com/suicide-hotlines
A Note About Labeling!
We often use the term ‘scam victim’ in our articles, but this is a convenience to help those searching for information in search engines like Google. It is just a convenience and has no deeper meaning. If you have come through such an experience, YOU are a Survivor! It was not your fault. You are not alone! Axios!
A Question of Trust
At the SCARS Institute, we invite you to do your own research on the topics we speak about and publish, Our team investigates the subject being discussed, especially when it comes to understanding the scam victims-survivors experience. You can do Google searches but in many cases, you will have to wade through scientific papers and studies. However, remember that biases and perspectives matter and influence the outcome. Regardless, we encourage you to explore these topics as thoroughly as you can for your own awareness.
Statement About Victim Blaming
SCARS Institute articles examine different aspects of the scam victim experience, as well as those who may have been secondary victims. This work focuses on understanding victimization through the science of victimology, including common psychological and behavioral responses. The purpose is to help victims and survivors understand why these crimes occurred, reduce shame and self-blame, strengthen recovery programs and victim opportunities, and lower the risk of future victimization.
At times, these discussions may sound uncomfortable, overwhelming, or may be mistaken for blame. They are not. Scam victims are never blamed. Our goal is to explain the mechanisms of deception and the human responses that scammers exploit, and the processes that occur after the scam ends, so victims can better understand what happened to them and why it felt convincing at the time, and what the path looks like going forward.
Articles that address the psychology, neurology, physiology, and other characteristics of scams and the victim experience recognize that all people share cognitive and emotional traits that can be manipulated under the right conditions. These characteristics are not flaws. They are normal human functions that criminals deliberately exploit. Victims typically have little awareness of these mechanisms while a scam is unfolding and a very limited ability to control them. Awareness often comes only after the harm has occurred.
By explaining these processes, these articles help victims make sense of their experiences, understand common post-scam reactions, and identify ways to protect themselves moving forward. This knowledge supports recovery by replacing confusion and self-blame with clarity, context, and self-compassion.
Additional educational material on these topics is available at ScamPsychology.org – ScamsNOW.com and other SCARS Institute websites.
Psychology Disclaimer:
All articles about psychology and the human brain on this website are for information & education only
The information provided in this article is intended for educational and self-help purposes only and should not be construed as a substitute for professional therapy or counseling.
While any self-help techniques outlined herein may be beneficial for scam victims seeking to recover from their experience and move towards recovery, it is important to consult with a qualified mental health professional before initiating any course of action. Each individual’s experience and needs are unique, and what works for one person may not be suitable for another.
Additionally, any approach may not be appropriate for individuals with certain pre-existing mental health conditions or trauma histories. It is advisable to seek guidance from a licensed therapist or counselor who can provide personalized support, guidance, and treatment tailored to your specific needs.
If you are experiencing significant distress or emotional difficulties related to a scam or other traumatic event, please consult your doctor or mental health provider for appropriate care and support.
Also read our SCARS Institute Statement about Professional Care for Scam Victims – click here to go to our ScamsNOW.com website.
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