Security Corner Blog

Why It’s Not Rude to Ignore “Hi, How Are You?” Text Messages from Strangers

In today’s world, scammers have developed increasingly creative ways to approach unsuspecting individuals, and one of the most common tactics involves sending a simple text message saying, “Hi, how are you?” While responding may feel polite, it’s essential to recognize that ignoring these messages from unknown numbers is not rude—it’s wise.

1. A Common Tactic Used by Scammers

Scammers often use these kinds of messages as an entry point to engage you in conversation. Their goal is to establish a false sense of trust before attempting to lure you into a scheme. After sending a seemingly harmless greeting, they may apologize for the 'wrong number' and then start sharing unsolicited advice about investments, particularly in cryptocurrency. Before you know it, they may attempt to convince you that you can make easy money in the crypto markets. Being cautious from the start helps prevent falling victim to such deceptive tactics.

2. Responding Can Put Your Information at Risk

Engaging with these strangers is not just risky because of the scams they may promote, but also because it opens the door to more serious threats. Scammers can use even minimal responses to collect personal data. With just a bit of information, they might target you with phishing attacks, malware, or even identity theft. A response gives them a sign that the number is active, making you a target for future scams.

3. Report the Messages

If you receive suspicious messages, it’s best to take action by reporting them. Most smartphones have a “report junk” feature to help stop the sender from contacting you. This proactive step puts you in control and helps protect others from falling victim to the same scam. Alternatively, you can forward these messages to 7726 (SPAM), a service used by mobile providers to help block scam messages.

4. Avoid Clicking on Links

These scam texts often include links that promise more information or quick money-making opportunities. Clicking on these links can lead to serious consequences, such as stealing personal data or installing malware on your device. If you receive a message from an unknown sender, it’s always best to delete it immediately without interacting.

5. Beware of “Easy Money” Offers

In addition to the danger of malware or identity theft, these scammers often play on your hopes or financial worries, offering what seems like too-good-to-be-true opportunities. For instance, a message promising a high return on a small investment or a large sum of money for a small fee is likely fraudulent. Any message that offers you quick and easy wealth, especially from a stranger, is likely fraudulent. Legitimate financial opportunities don’t arrive unsolicited through random texts.

While ignoring a “Hi, how are you?” message may feel impolite, it’s far from rude—it’s a smart way to protect yourself. Scammers rely on your engagement to launch their schemes, and avoiding interaction keeps your information safe. When in doubt, delete the message and report it. Safety and security are always more important than responding to a stranger’s text. You are the priority.

Want to learn How to Stop Spam Texts: Simple Steps to Protect Your Phone

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Work Cited

Lazarus, A., Heras, G. de las, Miller, T., Puig, A., Heras, G. de las, Specialist, C. E., Susan, Rogers, S., Moore, L., Sonia, Julia, Nora, Mitchell, J., Hartman, A., Stock, M. A., Marty, Wagner, T., Mike, Worren, … Neal. (2024, September 9). Why it’s not rude to ignore “hi, how are you?” text messages from strangers. Consumer Advice. https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts/2024/05/why-its-not-rude-ignore-hi-how-are-you-text-messages-strangers