Have you gotten a random text message simply saying “hi, how are you?” or “What are you doing?” From an unknown number? Before you reply and start wondering if it’s an old friend or a friendly stranger… think again. 

Scammers are using a tactic to keep you engaged just long enough to hook you. The goal is simple: get you to respond so they can begin building trust. Once you reply, they’ll often claim they “texted the wrong number,” acting embarrassed or overly friendly. This is intentional. The scammer wants to start a conversation that feels harmless and casual, so you let your guard down. 

After a bit of small talk, the conversation typically shifts. Scammers may try to: 

The longer the interaction continues, the more data they collect, and the more believable their story becomes. Many victims don’t realize the danger until their personal information is compromised, or they’ve been pressured into sending money. 

If you get a random “hi” or “how are you?” From someone you don’t know, the safest choice is to ignore and delete the message. Don’t respond, don’t click on anything, and don’t assume it’s innocent. These messages are crafted to look harmless, but they often lead to larger, more damaging scams.