Scam warning
“Wrong Number” Text
A friendly stranger texts you by “mistake”: “Hi, is this Linda? Are we still on for golf?” You reply to say it's the wrong number, and they keep chatting. Weeks later they bring up a great investment, often cryptocurrency, that they want to help you with.
Also called: Pig butchering, Wrong number scam, Crypto romance scam
The one thing to remember
Don't keep chatting with strangers who text a wrong number. And never invest because someone you met by text says so.
How it happens
- A text arrives meant for someone else. The person is polite and apologizes.
- They are friendly, send nice photos, and talk to you every day.
- They mention they've made a lot of money investing in crypto or gold.
- They help you open an account on an app or website. At first, your money seems to grow.
- When you try to take money out, there are “taxes” or “fees”. The money is gone.
Warning signs
- A wrong-number text that turns into a friendship.
- Photos of a very attractive, wealthy person.
- Talk of investing, crypto or trading.
- A website or app that shows big profits but won't let you withdraw.
What to do
- Don't reply to wrong-number texts. Just delete them.
- Never invest through a person you met online.
- Talk to your family or your bank before sending money to any investment.
Last checked: October 31, 2026