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Messages that look almost identical can be worlds apart. Here's how to tell the difference — side by side.
You get an unexpected text with a link claiming a package is delayed due to an "incomplete address" and asking for a small redelivery fee.
You only get text updates if you specifically signed up for them on USPS.com, and they never include links asking for personal info or payment.
A text warns of a suspicious charge and includes a link to log in, or asks you to reply with your PIN, password, or verification code.
A text simply asks "Did you make this purchase? Reply YES or NO," and will never ask for your password or a secure code.
You receive a call, text, or email offering a "surprise" refund if you click a link, or threatening arrest unless you pay fees via gift cards.
The IRS initiates contact through physical mail, never uses text or email for initial outreach, and never demands payment via gift cards or crypto.
An email says you received money but must pay a fee to "upgrade to a business account" before the funds can be released.
The email simply states you received money, and the funds instantly appear in your bank account with zero extra steps or fees.
A caller claims they need your Medicare number to issue a "new plastic card" or threatens to cancel your benefits if you don't verify your identity.
Medicare will rarely call you unless you contacted them first, and they already have your Medicare number safely on file.
A high-pressure caller or social media post demands donations via cash, wire transfer, or crypto to a charity whose name sounds vaguely familiar.
Established charities accept standard credit card payments on their official websites and never pressure you to donate immediately on the spot.
A recruiter offers a high-paying, easy remote job but requires you to buy your own equipment using a "company check" they send you upfront.
A recruiter asks to schedule a formal interview and will never send you a check to buy equipment before you are officially hired and onboarded.
The "landlord" says they are out of the country, cannot show you the inside of the property, and demands a security deposit via wire transfer to secure it.
The landlord or property manager meets you in person, gives a full tour of the interior, and signs a formal lease before collecting money.
You get a random call or a loud pop-up warning claiming your computer has a virus, demanding you download software to give them remote access.
Legitimate tech companies like Microsoft or Apple will never proactively call you or put a phone number in a pop-up warning to fix your computer.
A stranger (or a hacked friend's account) messages you boasting about massive, guaranteed crypto profits and directs you to a mysterious trading app.
Real financial advisors do not solicit investments via Instagram direct messages and will never promise guaranteed, risk-free returns.
Paste any suspicious text, email, or screenshot for instant analysis.