Got a Text About Expiring Rewards Points? Look Closer…

If you are enrolled in a rewards, loyalty, or points program, you may receive texts claiming your points are about to expire. Messages like these are designed to grab your attention quickly and prompt immediate action. According to reports filed with the Federal Trade Commission, many of these texts are phishing scams and are not connected to real rewards programs.

Scammers rely on urgency to get people to click before asking questions. A warning that points will expire today or disappear forever can feel stressful, especially if the message appears to come from a familiar company or program.

How reward points phishing scams work

These scams typically begin with a text message warning that your points are about to expire. The message often includes a link and urges you to click it to save, redeem, or confirm your points. If you click the link, scammers may try to steal personal information such as credit card numbers, account logins, or Social Security numbers. In some cases, clicking the link can also download malicious software onto your phone.

The goal is not to give you rewards but to gain access to your money or personal data.

Signs the text message may be a scam

One common red flag is being told you must click a link immediately to avoid losing your points. Legitimate companies generally do not pressure customers through unsolicited texts. Another warning sign is a message that uses vague language, generic greetings, or unfamiliar web links that do not match the company’s official website.

Texts that create intense urgency or consequences for not responding right away should always be treated cautiously. Scammers depend on quick reactions to keep people from taking time to verify the information.

What to do if you receive a message about expiring points

If you get a text about expiring reward points, do not click the link. Instead, open the company’s website or mobile app on your own by typing in the address or using a saved bookmark. Once there, you can check your rewards balance directly to see if anything is actually expiring.

If you cannot find confirmation through official channels, contact the company using a phone number or email address you know is legitimate. Avoid using any contact information provided in the text itself.

Additional steps to protect yourself from phishing texts

It’s recommends enabling text and spam filters through your phone settings or wireless carrier to reduce unwanted messages. Keeping your phone’s operating system up to date is also important since updates often include fixes for known security issues. These protections can help reduce damage if you accidentally tap on a malicious link.

Most smartphones also allow users to report spam or phishing messages directly, which helps carriers and regulators identify and block scam campaigns.

Reporting suspicious texts

If you receive a suspicious message about expiring reward points, report it to the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. If you clicked a link or shared personal information, take immediate steps to secure your accounts and monitor them for unauthorized activity.

Scam messages often look convincing, but slowing down and verifying before clicking can help protect your personal information and finances. When in doubt, avoid the link and check directly with the company through trusted sources.

Source: Got a text about expiring reward points? Look closer | Consumer Advice

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