Common Phone Scams to Avoid (and What to Do If You’re Targeted)
Phone scams are getting sneakier every year. Whether it’s a suspicious text from E-ZPass, a fake PayPal alert, or a QR code in a restaurant, scammers are using new tricks to get your information — fast.
At TechPals, we hear from people every week who’ve received strange messages, odd calls, or misleading alerts. This guide walks you through the most common phone scams in 2025, how to spot them, and what to do if you’re targeted.
Need help untangling a suspicious message or restoring your phone’s security? Visit techpals.org to get one-on-one support.
1. E-ZPass Scam Texts
You receive a text saying you owe money on your toll bill. There’s a link to "pay now" to avoid fees.
Red Flags:
You don’t have an E-ZPass
The link looks strange (e.g., ezpassupdate.xyz)
It urges urgent payment
What to Do:
Do NOT click the link
Report the message by forwarding it to 7726 (SPAM)
Check your real E-ZPass account by visiting their official website directly
Related: E-ZPass Scam Text Warning
2. Fake PayPal or Bank Emails
You get an email claiming your PayPal or bank account has been frozen, or there's a charge you didn't make.
Red Flags:
Generic greeting (“Dear customer”)
Link to “verify your account”
Email address doesn’t match the company’s domain
What to Do:
Don’t click links or enter any info
Log in to your real account separately to check
Mark the email as phishing in your inbox
Related: PayPal Scam Email Warning
3. “Missed Package” Delivery Scams
Scammers send texts that look like USPS, UPS, or FedEx — telling you there’s a package waiting, with a link to schedule delivery.
Red Flags:
You weren’t expecting a package
The message is vague
It asks for your credit card info
What to Do:
Don’t click the link
Go directly to the delivery company’s official site to check for real tracking info
4. Tech Support Pop-Ups
While browsing, a full-screen message says your phone is infected or locked. It gives a number to call or a button to click.
Red Flags:
Alarming language (“Your phone is compromised!”)
Phone number to call
Claims to be Apple, Microsoft, or Google
What to Do:
Don’t call or click anything
Close the browser tab or restart your phone
Run a security scan if available
5. QR Code Traps
You scan a QR code from a flyer, sticker, or menu — and it opens a suspicious page asking for info or installing an app.
Red Flags:
QR codes in public places with no branding
Pages that ask for passwords, credit card info, or downloads
What to Do:
Only scan QR codes from trusted sources
Check the web address before clicking “Open”
Related: What Is a QR Code Menu?
6. “We’ve Locked Your Account” Scam Calls
A robotic voice claims your account (bank, Amazon, Apple ID) has been frozen and you must press a number to fix it.
Red Flags:
Pre-recorded call
Demands immediate action
Asks for account info or to press a key
What to Do:
Hang up immediately
Don’t share any info or press buttons
Call the company directly if you're concerned
7. Friend or Family “Help” Texts
You get a message from someone claiming to be your child, grandchild, or friend. They say they’ve lost their phone or are in trouble and need money right away.
Red Flags:
Message is vague or slightly off
They won’t call or verify who they are
What to Do:
Don’t send money
Call the person using a number you know
Ask a question only they would know
8. Fake App Downloads
Some scam links try to get you to download apps outside the App Store or Google Play.
Red Flags:
A link to download an “urgent update”
Pushy pop-ups claiming your device is outdated
What to Do:
Only download apps from official stores
Avoid installing anything from random links
9. Phony Surveys or Contests
You’re told you’ve won a prize — like a gift card or a new phone — and just need to enter your details.
Red Flags:
You didn’t enter any contest
You’re asked to pay shipping fees
Site looks sketchy or too good to be true
What to Do:
Don’t enter your info
Close the tab or app immediately
10. "Your Device Is Infected" Alerts
You might see these in pop-up ads or browser messages. They’ll tell you your device has viruses and you need to act fast.
Red Flags:
Alarming messages with lots of red or flashing symbols
Push to download a fake antivirus app
What to Do:
Don’t click anything
Close the tab or restart your phone
What to Do If You’re Targeted or Clicked Something Suspicious
Even careful users sometimes get tricked. Here’s what to do:
If You Clicked a Scam Link:
Close the tab or app immediately
Clear your browser history
Run a phone security scan
If You Gave Out Info:
Change your password right away
Contact your bank or service provider
Enable two-factor authentication (2FA)
Always:
Report scam texts to 7726
Delete suspicious messages
Final Thoughts: Stay Alert, Stay Safe
Scammers are always coming up with new tricks — but the good news is, a little caution goes a long way.
If something feels off, pause and double-check. And if you ever need help figuring out whether a message is legit or not, TechPals is here.
We offer clear, judgment-free help so you can stay in control of your tech — safely.
Need help cleaning up your phone or resetting your settings after a scam? Visit techpals.org today.
