While this type of fraud isn’t new, it is becoming much more common, and unfortunately, much more convincing.

The reason? Scammers are getting better at making their texts look like the kind of messages we may actually expect to receive. A delivery notice with a link to pay a small duty fee. A message claiming to be from ICBC about an outstanding ticket. Even a text that looks like it’s from your cable or phone provider. These are often short, urgent, and believable—which is exactly why they’re effective.

Unlike the old days of poorly written emails, these scam texts are short, polished, and often copy-paste the real language and style of legitimate organizations.

What to Watch For

📱 Unexpected texts about packages, fines, or bills
⚠️ Messages that push urgency (“Pay now to avoid penalties”)
🔗 Links that don’t look quite right—or are shortened to hide where they lead
💸 Requests for payment by e-transfer, credit card, or gift cards

How to Protect Yourself

⏸ Pause before reacting—real organizations won’t demand instant payment by text
🔍 Verify directly—use the official phone number or website to confirm (not the phone number they give by text)
🗑 When in doubt, delete—don’t click links or reply to suspicious texts

Scammers are counting on us to react quickly and not think twice. Taking a short pause could save you money and protect your personal information.

If you receive a suspicious text, report it to your phone provider and to the impersonated organization. And remember—you can always reach out to us at stellervista.com/fraud if you’re unsure.

Be informed. Be cautious. Be safe.