Fake fraud alert text: "reply NO if this wasn't you"
These texts invent a large purchase. If you reply, a fake "fraud team" calls and tells you to move your money to a "safe" account they control.
How this scam works
The first text checks that your number is active and creates fear about losing money. The follow-up caller then presents moving money as the fix, but the "safe" account belongs to the scammer.
Common versions of the message
- A large unfamiliar purchase
- A request to reply NO
- A follow-up call from a supposed fraud team
What the message looks like
Text from Amazon Security
Amazon Security: A purchase of $1,249.99 for an iPhone 17 Pro was placed on your account. If this wasn't you, reply NO and our fraud team will call you to secure your money.
Fictional example based on common, publicly reported scam patterns.
The red flags
- 1
Big surprise purchase: “$1,249.99”
Made to scare you into replying
A large, specific purchase is meant to be alarming enough that you respond before checking the account yourself.
- 2
Reply bait: “reply NO”
Replying tells them your number is real
Replying confirms that the number reaches someone and opens the door to the planned follow-up call.
- 3
They call you: “our fraud team will call you”
The "agent" will tell you to move your money
An incoming call is not independent verification. Call the number on your card yourself, and never move money to make it safe.
What to do
- Do not reply to the text.
- Call the number on the back of your card or log in to your account yourself.
- Real banks never ask you to move money to keep it safe.
If you already replied, clicked, or paid
- If you only replied, stop engaging and call the number on your card to check the account.
- If you shared a code or login details, tell the bank immediately and change the password through the real app or site.
- If you moved money, call your bank's fraud team immediately and report the destination account and transfer.
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