AI Scam Library
The “wrong number” text scam A friendly stranger, with a plan.
By Jake Geise, founder of VUYSE · Updated October 2026 · Sources below
It starts with a harmless text meant for “someone else.” If you reply, a friendly stranger keeps chatting for days or weeks, then introduces an investment or an emergency. It’s a long con, often run by organized crime groups. The safest move is not to reply at all.
Start the free 7-Day Kickstart → 10 minutes a day · 7 days free
How it works
- A text arrives from an unknown number: “Hi, is this Linda?” or “Are we still on for dinner?”
- You kindly say they have the wrong number. They apologize and keep chatting. They’re warm, interesting, and often attractive in photos.
- After building trust, they mention how well they’re doing investing in crypto, and offer to help you start.
- The app shows big gains. When you try to take money out, you’re told to pay “taxes” or “fees” first, and the money is never returned.
Warning signs
- A text from an unknown number that seems meant for someone else
- A stranger who becomes a close friend or romantic interest quickly, but never meets in person
- Talk of crypto, trading apps, or an investment they can “teach” you
- Being asked to move the chat to WhatsApp, Telegram or another app
- Fees or taxes you must pay before you can withdraw
What to do
- Don’t reply to texts from numbers you don’t know. It isn’t rude.
- Delete the message, or forward it to 7726 (SPAM) so your carrier can block it.
- Never send money or invest because of someone you’ve only met online.
- Talk to a family member or friend if someone online is asking about money.
New scams like this appear every week. Get the free 7-Day Kickstart and weekly Scam Watch alerts →
77%
Of the people the FBI warned through Operation Level Up didn’t know they were being scammed until the FBI told them.
Source: FBI: Operation Level UpIf you already paid or clicked
Stop sending money right away, and don’t pay any fee to withdraw. Report it to the FBI at ic3.gov. Be wary of anyone who offers to “recover” your money for a fee; that’s usually a second scam.
It’s not your fault. These are professionals, and they fool smart people every day. Acting fast is what matters.
Where to report it
- ReportFraud.ftc.gov: the Federal Trade Commission
- ic3.gov: the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center, whatever the amount lost
Need help? Call the National Elder Fraud Hotline at 1-833-372-8311 (1-833-FRAUD-11), or the free AARP Fraud Watch Network Helpline at 877-908-3360.
Spot AI scams before they cost you.
The free 7-Day AI Safety Kickstart: 10 minutes a day. You’ll learn the tricks, set up your family code word, lock down your accounts, and get new scam alerts every week.
Start the free 7-Day Kickstart →7 days free, then $99 a month (or $990 a year). Renews automatically; cancel anytime. First paid month not worth it? Full refund within 30 days.