Amarillo Text Scam Warning from Police

No matter the time of year, scam alerts in Amarillo just don’t end. Every time you turn around, there is a new one. Some pull at your heartstrings, and some try to steal your hard-earned money.

The scammers have different methods to try to notify you and steal your information or money. They might reach out via social media, phone call, text, or even snail mail.

However, they try to contact you. The important thing is to refrain from doing whatever they are requesting. The scams need to end. That day of it ending is not today, unfortunately.

How the Scam Works: Friendly Text Turns Risky

A recent Amarillo Police Department warning of another one:

In this week’s scam, you receive an unexpected text message from an unknown number. The text seems harmless at first, with a message like “Hey, how are you?” or “Are you coming to the BBQ later?” If you reply to the message, the sender will start a friendly conversation.

Why You Should Never Reply

Even if it seems like a harmless text misdirected to the wrong person, you don't reply back because that could lead to more problems.

Red Flags: Too-Good-To-Be-True Investment Offers

But this “friend” is actually a cybercriminal! After some casual conversation, they’ll start talking about a great investment opportunity in cryptocurrency or gold, and promise you can make big profits with no risk. They’ll tell you to invest in a specific website or app. But this opportunity isn’t real, and any money you send will go directly to the scammer. If you send your money through the website or app, the cybercriminal “friend” will disappear, and your money will be gone forever!

How to Protect Yourself — Simple Safety Tips

Keep your money and information safe and never send money. There are tips to keep you safe:

Follow these tips to avoid falling victim to this smishing, or SMS phishing, scam:
• If you receive a text from a number you don’t know, don't reply. Replying to the message lets cybercriminals know that your phone number is active.
• Be cautious of any promises of guaranteed profits or zero-risk returns. These are major red flags for scams.
• Never send money, cryptocurrency, or gift cards to someone you haven’t met in person.

Always verify anything before you send money or information. A quick verification can save you time and money.

Protect Yourself From Texas Phone Scams

Gallery Credit: Chaz

The Many Changes of Coulter Street Over the Years

There have been many businesses that have come and gone on Coulter Street. Some have even been there so long that they have received face lifts over the years.

Gallery Credit: Melissa Bartlett/TSM

Source: Amarillo Police Warn: Don’t Fall for This Text Message Scam