A text says your account is locked and asks you to reply with your details. FTC advice?

Legit companies won't ask for account info by text.

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  1. Reply with the last four digits only
  2. Click the link to unlock
  3. Don't reply; real companies don't ask for account info by text ✔

Why: Scammers send fake alerts to get you to click or reply. Contact the company with a number or site you know, not the one in the text.

Huh, didn't know that: The FTC says scam texts often promise free prizes, gift cards or coupons.

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I don't trust those trees. They seem kind of shady.
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References

Answer: Don't reply; real companies don't ask for account info by text. Scammers send fake alerts to get you to click or reply. Contact the company with a number or site you know, not the one in the text.

  1. FTC: How to Recognize and Report Spam Text Messages consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-recognize-and-report-spam-text-messages
    Legitimate companies won't ask for information about your account by text.
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  2. FTC: How to Recognize and Report Spam Text Messages consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-recognize-and-report-spam-text-messages
    Some links might take you to a spoofed website that looks real but isn't.
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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