SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/dad-phone-unknown-sender

Your child gets a text from a number they do not know. What does the FTC suggest?

Do not reply, and learn how to block the number.

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  1. Reply to ask who it is
  2. Do not reply, and block the number ✔
  3. Click the link to check

Why: Replying shows scammers that the number works. Teach kids to ignore messages from people they do not know and to block unwanted numbers. Talk with them often.

Huh, didn't know that: Check which apps really need location access.

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My kid got a text from a stranger and did the right thing: nothing. He was busy texting me in all caps.
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References

Answer: Do not reply, and block the number. Replying shows scammers that the number works. Teach kids to ignore messages from people they do not know and to block unwanted numbers. Talk with them often.

  1. FTC: Kids and Cell Phones consumer.ftc.gov/articles/kids-cell-phones
    Don't reply to messages from people you don't know.
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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