Three Key Steps to Avoid Text Message Scams

By Kevin Novak, Chief Information Security Officer at Old National Bank

Text message scams — also known as “smishing” — continue to rise. These scams often impersonate banks, delivery services, or government agencies, and attempt to trick recipients into clicking malicious links or sharing personal information.

At Old National, we’re committed to protecting our clients from fraud. But whether you bank with us or not, these three key steps can help you recognize and avoid malicious text message scams.

1. Don’t Click Links from Unknown or Suspicious Senders

   • Delete messages from unknown numbers
   • Don’t click links unless you’re 100% sure of the sender
   • Instead, open and use your bank’s mobile app or website directly

2. Know What Your Bank Will — and Won’t — Ask Via Text

   • Familiarize yourself with your bank’s communication policies
   • ONB Will NEVER ask for your security passwords or passcodes
   • Enable official alerts from your bank’s mobile app or website
   • Report suspicious texts to 7726 (SPAM)
   • Check your bank’s Security Center offerings and information

3. Block and Report Smishing Attempts

   • Block numbers from suspicious senders
   • Report suspicious messages
   • File complaints with the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov

Final Thoughts

Text message scams are clever, persistent, and increasingly sophisticated. Sometimes they even begin as a simple “Hello.” 

But with a little vigilance, you can stay one step ahead to avoid the scam. At Old National, we work hard to protect our clients with advanced fraud detection systems and secure communication practices.