June 30, 2025
Common Spam Text Scams in Minnesota: How to Spot and Avoid Them
People around the U.S., including Minnesotans, are increasingly the targets of unwanted text messages, often called spam or scam texts. These unsolicited messages can range from annoying advertisements to sophisticated attempts to obtain personal information and steal money.
If you’re wondering how to identify a spam message and how to stop scammer text messages, this article provides helpful information. It addresses the critical topic of common spam text scams in Minnesota and how to spot and avoid them, providing practical advice and highlighting key aspects of relevant laws.
Fake Package Delivery Notifications: A Common Text Scam
One of the most common spam text scams in Minnesota involves fake package delivery notifications. These messages often say that a package could not be delivered due to an incorrect address or unpaid shipping fees. They include a link to a website designed to steal your credit card details and other personal information by making you believe you need to provide the information to resolve the delivery issue and get your package.
The messages typically create a sense of urgency, encouraging you to act quickly without thinking about the potential risks. Legitimate delivery companies will not request payment or personal information in unsolicited text messages.
So, how can you identify a spam message like this? First, we should stress: Do NOT click the link. Instead, look for issues in the message. They might include grammatical errors, typos, or a generic greeting instead of your name.
Impersonation Scams: Banks and Government Agencies
Another common spam text scam in Minnesota is where the sender impersonates a financial institution or government agency. You might get a text message saying your bank account has been compromised and asking you to verify your login details by clicking a link.
A scammer might also impersonate the IRS or other government bodies, threatening legal action if you don’t immediately provide sensitive information or make a payment. These messages are designed to scare you, so you will use poor judgment and provide the requested information.
Remember that banks and government agencies will never request sensitive information in unsolicited text messages. If you receive this type of message and want to confirm no action is required of you, it’s best to contact the institution in question through its official website or phone number.
The Enticing Promise of Prizes
“Congratulations! You’ve won a prize!” is another classic text scam. These messages promise valuable rewards like gift cards, electronics, or even large amounts of money. However, the scammers say that to claim your prize, you must pay a small “processing fee” or provide personal information.
You pay the fee or provide the information but never get the promised prize. Instead, the scammers gain access to your financial details or identity. Be extremely wary of unsolicited messages announcing unexpected winnings. Legitimate contests and giveaways will not require you to pay a fee to claim a prize.
Taking Action: How to Stop Scammer Text Messages
Given how eager scammers are to get your information, you probably want to know how to stop scammer text messages in the first place. First, as noted above, you must never click links. You also shouldn’t reply directly to suspicious text messages. Even replying “stop” can confirm to the scammers that your phone number is active and encourage them to send more messages.
Most smartphones have built-in features to block unwanted numbers. Using that feature is much safer and more effective. You can also explore third-party apps designed to filter and block spam text messages.
Understanding the Source: Where Do Most Spam Texts Come From?
People often ask, “Where do most spam texts come from?” It’s difficult to pinpoint the exact origins of spam texts. However, many come from overseas locations and use so-called “spoofed” phone numbers to appear local.
Scammers also use Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services and burner phones, making it challenging to trace their origins. These technologies give spammers a degree of anonymity, empowering them to send large numbers of spam texts without fear of being caught.
Legal Protections and Reporting Mechanisms
There are both federal and state laws that protect consumers from unwanted communications. While those laws can be helpful, pursuing individual spammers can be difficult: they’re often overseas and take steps to be anonymous.
However, reporting spam texts to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and your phone service provider can contribute to efforts to prevent scams.
Proactive Defense: Four Ways to Avoid Being Scammed
What are four ways to avoid being scammed by spam? First and foremost, you should never click on links or download attachments from unknown senders. Links can take you to websites that steal your information or install malicious software on your device.
Second, never provide personal information (passwords, bank account numbers, Social Security numbers, etc.) in response to unsolicited text messages, even if the message appears to come from a legitimate source. Banks, government entities, and businesses will not request that type of information via text.
Third, be suspicious of any message that creates a sense of urgency or demands immediate action. Scammers often use this tactic to mislead you into clicking or responding right away, before you have more time to think about whether you’re being scammed.
Finally, if you think the sender might be a legitimate business or organization, contact the supposed sender through its official website or other verified contact information. For example, if you get a text claiming to be from your bank, call the bank directly using the phone number listed on their official website or your bank statement.
Read Also: When “STOP” Isn’t Enough: Pursuing Legal Action Against Spam Text Violators
Don’t Fall for Common Text Scams in Minnesota
Now that you have some background on common spam text scams in Minnesota, including how to spot and avoid them, you are less likely to be victimized by scammers. Remember that a healthy dose of skepticism is one of your best defenses, especially if a message generates excitement or concern when you read it.
In addition to knowing how you can identify a spam message and how to stop scammer test messages, you should consider getting help from the experienced spam text message lawyers at Wanta Thome PLC if appropriate. We can advise you on how to proceed if you’ve been victimized. Contact us for a free initial consultation.