Online Threat Alerts (OTA) - Alerting you to scams and frauds.

401 Area Code Scams Text Message

Scams using the 401 area code often involve "neighbor spoofing," where attackers mimic local Rhode Island numbers to trick recipients into trusting the message. These texts frequently push fake package deliveries, bank fraud alerts, or investment scams (pig butchering) to steal personal data, money, or install malware. Do not click links or reply; block the number and report it to 7726.

About 401 Area Code Scam Text

  • Neighbor Spoofing: Scammers use the 401 area code to make calls/texts appear local to Rhode Island, increasing the likelihood of a response.
  • Package Delivery Scams: Messages claiming a "USPS" or courier package is stuck and requires clicking a link to pay fees or verify information.
  • Bank/Fraud Alerts: Fake texts regarding suspicious activity on your account designed to steal credentials.
  • "Wrong Number" Approach: A friendly "Hello" or "Is this [Name]?" message that leads to a long-term conversation meant to lure you into cryptocurrency scams.
  • Urgent Threat Scams: Texts claiming to be authorities (e.g., DMV, law enforcement) saying you owe fines or have a suspended license.

Protect Yourself

  • Do Not Engage: Do not reply to, click links in, or call back unknown numbers, even if they seem local.
  • Block and Delete: Use your phone's built-in tools to block the sender immediately.
  • Report Scam Texts: Forward spam messages to 7726 (SPAM), a service offered by mobile providers, and report them to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
  • Verify Independently: If a text claims to be from a legitimate company or government agency, contact them directly through their official website or phone number, not the one in the text.
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