Scam text messages
Like emails, text messages are an easy way for scammers to target lots of people at once. This means text messages are often generic, but they can still catch you off guard if you’re unprepared.
Things to look out for
Understanding how text scams work can make identifying them much easier.
Were you expecting a text message?
We’ll never request your personal details — such as credit card or account numbers, or passwords - via text message. Unexpected text messages claiming to be from us asking for this information should always be treated suspiciously.
If you aren’t expecting anything from us but still want to check everything’s all right, only use legitimate phone numbers and links found on the website of your insurer.
Are there links in the text message?
Fraudulent text messages often include some kind of emergency communication along with a link. For example, you may be told to fix a problem with your account by logging in.
Although the link may take you to a page that looks like your account, the form fields (such as on the login screen) are used to steal your details.
Does the number appear genuine?
Don’t be tempted to call the number a text message was sent from to verify its authenticity. The number may look genuine, but it could actually belong to someone unaware that a scammer is using their number. This is called "spoofing".
Did you receive a strange voicemail?
Scam text messages referencing missed calls or voicemails are becoming increasingly common. Whether or not you were notified of the missed call, these text messages require you to download an app via a link to hear the voicemail message.
It's important that you don’t click on this link, as it contains malicious software designed to steal your important personal and/or banking information.
