Table of Contents
Why am I getting group texts about Verizon rewards?
Immediate Advisory: Do Not Click the Link
If you receive a text message claiming your Verizon reward points are expiring, delete it. This communication is a phishing attempt designed to steal your financial data. Verizon does not operate a points-based reward system that expires in this manner. Engaging with these links jeopardizes your personal security.
The Anatomy of the Deception
Scammers are currently targeting Verizon customers with high-volume SMS campaigns. These messages typically claim the recipient has a specific balance, often citing “11,430 points,” which must be redeemed immediately. This tactic relies on urgency to bypass your critical thinking.
You can identify this fraud through three distinct technical errors:
- Non-Existent Program: Verizon utilizes a program called “My Access” (formerly Verizon Up). This system provides monthly credits or device dollars. It does not issue “reward points.” Any message referencing a points balance is false.
- The Group Text Vector: Legitimate corporations prioritize data privacy. Verizon Support has confirmed they never distribute offers via group messaging. If your text includes multiple recipients—often up to 18 random numbers—it is a scam.
- URL Spoofing: The embedded links use deceptive subdomains. A URL reading “verizon.com-arf.com” is not hosted by Verizon. It directs traffic to a third-party malicious site designed to harvest data.
The Financial Risk
The objective of this campaign is credit card theft. Victims who click the link encounter a convincing replica of the Verizon interface. The site prompts the user to select a “reward,” such as AirPods or an Apple Watch.
The fraud occurs at checkout. The site requests a nominal “shipping fee.” When the user enters credit card details to pay this small amount, the attackers capture the banking information. Users frequently report that the payment page rejects the card repeatedly, encouraging the victim to try different cards, thereby compromising multiple accounts.
Protocol for Containment
Security experts observe similar patterns targeting T-Mobile and banking customers. The defense strategy remains consistent across all platforms.
If you receive this message:
- Do not reply. Responding confirms your number is active.
- Report the fraud. Forward the message to 7726 (spells SPAM). This alerts the carrier to block the source.
- Verify independently. Open the official My Verizon app directly. Legitimate offers appear solely within the application, never in unsolicited group texts.