“Are you alive” or “Hi, how are you” Scam Texts - How to Spot and Avoid Scam Text Messages

Have you ever received a random text message from an unfamiliar number saying something like “Hello” or “Hi, how are you?”

At first glance, it might seem harmless—just someone trying to start a friendly conversation. It’s not.

These messages can be the opening act in a scam designed to trick you. Today, we’re diving into this topic to help you stay safe and protect yourself from these schemes. Let’s break it down together.

Why Are They Texting You?

You might wonder how these scammers even got your phone number in the first place. Here are some of the most common ways they obtain it:

1. Data Breaches: Hackers steal personal information, including phone numbers, from companies. You probably get an email or letter in the mail every few months letting you know there was a data breach at some company (insurance, fast food, shopping, etc) and your data was included. You didn’t do anything wrong - but now scammers have your data. The information from a breech often ends up for sale online.

2. Public Sources: If your number is listed in a public directory or on a social media account, scammers can easily find it.

3. Purchases: Some shady companies sell customer information to data brokers, who then sell it to scammers.

Knowing this helps you understand that you’re not alone, and it’s not your fault if your number ends up in the wrong hands. There is nothing you can do to stop scammers from occasionally texting you.

The Emotional Tactics of Scammers

Scammers know that humans are naturally kind and curious. Many of us were raised to be polite, and scammers take advantage of this urge. They count on your kindness to keep the conversation going.

Remember: it’s okay to ignore and block these messages, even if it feels “rude” at the time. Here are some common scam text starters:

• Sending messages that play on your emotions, like “Are you okay?”, “I had a long day” or “Are you alive?”

• Pretending they’ve texted the wrong person to get you to reply out of politeness, for example “Hey Melissa, I had fun yesterday”. “Hi, How are you?” or “Thanks for the book suggestion”.

The Risks of Responding to Scam Texts

So, what’s the harm in replying to a text message? It seems pretty safe, right?

Not exactly. There’s a lot that could go wrong:

1. More Scam Attempts: Responding confirms your number is active, leading to more spam and scam messages. The scammer then sells your number to higher value scamming groups, who use your number for more targeted scams. If you reply or click on any link from the initial text, you’ll notice a drastic uptick in scam text for the next 12-18 months. It’s very annoying.

2. Phishing (stealing information): Prolonged conversations could lead to requests for sensitive details, like your bank account or passwords. They might use this to try to impersonate you and commit fraud (identity theft) or gain access to your bank account.

3. Malware (harmful software): Some scammers send links that, when clicked, can infect your phone with spyware or viruses.

4. Financial Loss, “Pig Butchering” scam: The “pig butchering” scam is a sophisticated fraud that exploits trust and emotions. Like a pig farmer, scammers take their time to “fatten up” victims, with fun conversation and shared stories, gaining their confidence for weeks or months before stealing large sums of money. Eventually, the conversation shifts to investments, typically cryptocurrency. The scammer claims they’ve made huge profits and offers to help you get started. They provide fake “proof” of success, encouraging you to invest small amounts, which appear to yield quick returns. Convinced, victims invest more—only to lose everything when the scammer vanishes. The emotional manipulation is powerful, playing on kindness, loneliness, or curiosity.

How to Protect Yourself

Now that you know the dangers, let’s focus on how to handle these messages. Here are some steps to take:

1. Don’t Respond: If you don’t recognize the sender, delete the message and don’t reply. Even a simple “Who is this?” tells them your number is active, and you’ll start getting that drastic uptick in repeat scam phone calls or text messages.

2. Block the Number: On most smartphones, you can block numbers to prevent further messages from the same sender.

3. Report the Message: Forward suspicious texts to 7726 (SPAM). This helps your carrier investigate and block scammers.

4. Avoid Clicking Links: Never click on links in messages from unknown sources. They could lead to fake websites designed to steal your information.

5. Use Security Software: Install a trusted security app on your phone to protect against malware and phishing attempts.

What If You Accidentally Respond?

Don’t panic! Mistakes happen. If you’ve already replied:

1. Stop All Communication: Don’t respond to any follow-up messages. Take screenshots of the conversation; this can be handy for reporting.

2. Monitor Your Accounts: If you shared any personal information, check your bank accounts and credit report for suspicious activity.

3. Change Passwords: Update any passwords that might be at risk.

4. Block the number

Final Thoughts

Scammers are clever, but you’re smarter. By staying informed and cautious, you can protect yourself from these threats.

If something feels off, trust your instincts and don’t engage. Remember, it’s not just about protecting your money and information—it’s about maintaining your peace of mind.

Stay safe, and always think twice before replying to an unexpected message.