FBI Warns Missouri Residents to Delete Scam Text Immediately

Here we go again—another serious warning from the FBI for Missouri residents about a new text scam to watch out for.

What is a Smishing Scam?

Smishing scams are a form of phishing that target victims through text messages. If you’ve received a message about a toll fee, package delivery, unexpected charge, or unpaid warrant, chances are it’s a smishing scam.

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I have received this text and the red flag for me was where it came from, the phone number seemed very different from an American number.

Canva/Samantha Barnes

According to Newsweek, the FBI is urging everyone to delete these texts immediately. Scammers behind these messages are after your financial information, hoping to steal your hard-earned money.

Here's What to Look For

The FBI says there are ways to determine if these texts you get are a scam or not.

These texts follow a specific format, saying you own a small amount of money (like my text I received above).

Don't click on ANY link or response to these texts.

Call the department that you received a text from to confirm the charge.

Report the scam to your local better business bureau.

Delete the message immediately and block the number from your phone.

The FBI says there are also major cities that top their list of most targeted cities:

Dallas
Atlanta
Los Angeles
Chicago
Orlando

Even though a Missouri city is not on the list, you still need to stay aware and alert, as these scams don’t seem to be going away anytime soon. It’s also a harsh reminder to make sure everyone in your family, including kids and older adults, knows about these texts and understands what to do if they receive one.