How do I report a scam text message?
Forward the scam text to 7726 (SPAM) in the UK, Australia, and the US. Also report to the FTC, Scamwatch, or Action Fraud and block the sender.
Last reviewed: 10 June 2026
Explanation
The number 7726 spells SPAM on a phone keypad and is a shared shortcode used by major mobile network operators in the UK, US, and Australia to collect scam text reports. When you forward a suspicious message to 7726, your carrier receives the sender's number, analyses it, and can block it network-wide if they confirm it is a scam source. This is one of the fastest ways to protect other people from the same message.
In the US you can also report smishing (SMS phishing) to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. In the UK, the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) at report.ncsc.gov.uk accepts suspicious email and text reports. In Australia, report to Scamwatch.gov.au and your carrier.
Before you forward or delete the message, take a screenshot. This preserves the sender number, timestamp, and full text for any follow-up investigation. Do not click any links in the message. If you accidentally tapped a link, check whether any app was installed, change any passwords you may have entered, and run a security scan on your phone.
Many scam texts impersonate parcel couriers, banks, HMRC, the ATO, or the IRS. Some use number spoofing to appear as though they came from a legitimate institution. If in doubt, contact the organisation directly using a number from their official website rather than any number in the text.
Common red flags
- The text contains a link with an unusual or misspelled domain
- It asks you to confirm delivery of a parcel you did not order
- It claims your bank account has been locked and provides a link
- The message offers a prize or refund you did not apply for
- It contains urgent language about unpaid tax or a warrant
- The sender's number is a standard mobile number rather than an official shortcode
What to do now
- Do not click any links in the message
- Forward the text to 7726 (SPAM)
- Screenshot the message for your records
- Report to the FTC, NCSC, or Scamwatch depending on your country
- Block the sender number on your phone
- If you clicked a link, change passwords and run a security check
Frequently asked questions
Can forwarding a scam text to 7726 cost me money?
No. Forwarding to 7726 is free on all major networks in the UK, US, and Australia. Standard SMS rates do not apply.
What if the scam text came from a regular mobile number?
Forward it to 7726 anyway and include it in your FTC or Action Fraud report. Carriers and regulators can trace and block numbers used for bulk fraud messaging.