How to report a scam text message and what to do if you think you have responded to one.
How to report a scam text message
If you think you have received a scam text message you can forward this to 7726 for free as most phone providers are part of a scheme which allows customers to do this. If you forward text messages to 7726, your provider can investigate where the message came from and block or ban the sender.
How do I report scam text messages on my device?
Iphone or ipad:
- Take a note of the scam number
- Press and hold on the message bubble
- Tap more
- Select the message you want to forward
- Tap the ‘forward’ arrow at the bottom right of your screen
- Type in 7726 and send
Android devices:
- Take a note of the scam number
- Enter the conversation then press and hold on the message bubble
- Tap on the three dots on the top right of your screen
- Tap forward
- Type 7726 and send
Google devices:
For google device read Google’s official advice on reporting spam
You can also take a screenshot or screen recording of the scam text message and submit to report@phishing.gov.uk.
Why you should report scam text messages
Scammers use scam emails to get you to click a malicious link. This link will bring you to a malicious website and download a virus to your device, steal passwords or steal personal or bank details.
Reporting scam text message can reduce the amount of scams you receive, make yourself a harder target for scammers and help others from falling victim to the same scams.
What to do if you have responded to a scam text message
If you think you have responded to a scam test message and;
- Think you have shared person information learn how to protect yourself
- Have visited a website which you think is suspicious, you can report this to the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC)
If you have lost money or your accounts have been hacked as a result of responding to a scam email you should report this to Action Fraud by visiting their website or call 0300 123 2040.)