How to Spot Fake Bank and Parcel SMS: A Guide to Scam Messages

September 9, 2026 · 2 min read

Scammers imitate organisations you know to push you toward a fake page. This is called phishing, and the SMS version is known as “smishing”. These signs help you tell that a message is fake.

Common traits of fake messages

• Pressure and urgency: “Your account will be blocked”, “act within 24 hours”, “your parcel will be returned”.
• A link: domain names that look like the real organisation but differ (for example bank-login.xyz).
• Requests for personal data: passwords, card numbers, CVV, verification codes or your national ID number.
• Typos and odd sender names: banks normally send from their own registered sender names.

Is that parcel message fake?

Messages like “address incomplete, pay an extra fee” are very common. Real couriers usually point you to their official app or website with a tracking number and do not ask for card details through an SMS link. If you are unsure, don’t tap the link; check the tracking number in the courier’s own app.

Is that bank message fake?

Banks send transaction alerts under their own sender names and normally don’t ask for your password or card details through a link in an SMS. If you have doubts, call your bank on the official number printed on your card.

Never share a verification code

One-time codes arrive only for an action you took. If someone asks for the code by phone or message, never share it, whatever the reason.

How do you protect yourself?

1. Don’t tap links from senders you don’t know.
2. Check where shortened links lead with a preview.
3. Check suspicious senders in the community scores; in HiSMS a sender’s profile shows other users’ votes and comments.
4. Use a spam filter so fake messages never reach your inbox.
5. If you think you were scammed, call your bank immediately and contact the relevant authorities.

Download HiSMS and keep scam messages away from your inbox.