Text mail subscribers are people and entities that send texts about products and services to random numbers in the hope that they land a sale. Receivers may get promotional offers, updates on orders they've placed, or any other type of message that the company feels would be relevant to them.
I am not a fan of unsolicited texts and dealing with text mail subscribers can be a little annoying and invasive. I got in touch with my carrier and they helped me unsubscribe from all the texts right away.
If you’ve been on the receiving end of text mail subscriber texts, this is for you. By the end of this, you will know what a text mail subscriber is, the drawbacks, and how to tell if you’re being scammed.
Contents
Drawbacks of a Text Mail Subscriber to Users
The following are some common drawbacks a text mail subscriber has on the receivers.
1. They’re Inconvenient
Once you have too many text mail subscriber messages, your phone will start to lag, which is incredibly frustrating. Sometimes, you have to block text mail subscribers.
2. They Cost Money
This is probably the most obvious drawback of being on the receiving end of a text mail subscriber. Scammers may trick you into footing the texting bill without your knowledge. In order to send or receive texts, you need to have a cell phone plan that includes text messaging.
Sometimes the costs of text messaging aren't so obvious and many telemarketers love taking advantage of this gray area to charge you secretly.
3. It Takes up Your Time
You may think it's easy enough to scroll through emails or texts on your phone. However, with all the spam from every mail subscriber out there, it seems like every message is trying to sell you something or scam you into giving away personal info.
And if we let our phones go off in class or during a meeting, not only are we disrupting others but also showing that we can't be bothered to pay attention to the world around us.
4. They Can Be Invasive
Have you ever been in the middle of a meeting or class and your phone goes off with a text notification? It's pretty embarrassing and disruptive. A text mail subscriber has the tendency to disrupt everything and it can be distracting when you're in the middle of something important.
How to Track a Text Mail Subscriber Number?
As a phone owner, tracking a text mail subscriber number is one way of knowing which texts are spam and which are real. If you are at the receiving end of these mail subscriber text messages from text mail subscribers, the following are some ways you can track anonymous text messages.
1. Save the Number
The fastest way to know if you’re dealing with a text mail subscriber is to save their number and wait for the next text to come in. This way, you can have all the texts grouped under one number to give you a good idea of who you’re dealing with.
It won’t be long before you can get enough information on what their aim is and why they keep texting you. This way, you can choose to block or follow up with the relevant authorities to stop them from being sent to your number or getting your number off the text mail subscription list.
2. Ask Others
Another simple way of figuring out if you’re dealing with a scam text mail subscriber is to talk to other people around you. By checking with others to see if they’re also receiving similar text mail service messages, it becomes easy to know what you’re dealing with.
Ask friends and family if they know the mail subscriber number and check the region code. There's a high chance there’s someone else in your circle has interacted with the number. That would be a good starting point to track it down and stop the texts.
3. Call the Number Back
You can also call the number back to see who’s behind the text mail subscriber messages. Texting back may be another option but they may not reply back. Calling would be the next option and if they still don’t pick the calls, that’s an indication you’re dealing with a mail subscriber scammer or something similar.
Try calling from another phone number if they don’t respond and see what happens. Chances are they’ll pick up when it’s a number they haven’t interacted with. If you have access to telephone diaries and registries, make use of them to figure out the identity behind the text mail subscriber blowing up your phone with texts.
4. Use Mobile Number Tracking Apps
There are a number of mobile number tracking apps that you can use to find out the identity of the mail subscriber number texting you. A good example is Truecaller which has a wide database of numbers. If the mail subscriber behind the number is in that database, their full details will be shown right away.
5. Do A Reverse Phone Lookup
An online reverse phone lookup is another method you can use to check the details of the number spamming you. You can do this via Google search or a reverse phone number lookup tool like Reverse Phone Lookup. This exposes text mail subscriber numbers in plain text and numeric characters.
What Is a Text Mail Subscriber Scam?
Text Mail Subscriber number Scams are a type of spam disguised as an official text. It comes in the form of SMS messages and phone calls. However, such messages can also be delivered via email or even social media networks.
It’s called Text Mail Subscriber Scam because they use your mobile phone number to send you a text message which gives the appearance of being from an important company such as Amazon, Facebook, Google, etc., with instructions on how to subscribe to their service.
If you reply back “YES”, they will charge your account for monthly fees. This scam is often done by sending out fake text mail subscriber voicemail like "You have been selected" which tricks people into clicking on links in order to subscribe.
As text mail subscriber texting scammers get more sophisticated, they can even make it look like the text message is coming from someone you know. So, how can you protect yourself from Text Mail Subscriber number scams?
First, always be suspicious of unsolicited messages – especially those that require an immediate response. Don’t click on any links in the text message and don’t reply to the sender. Instead, go directly to the website or contact number listed on your account statement or invoice.
How to Tell a Text Mail Is a Scam?
You shouldn’t automatically trust every message you receive. Here are some telltale signs that can help determine whether or not the message is from a scammer in disguise.
- Does the website link work? Some scammers will send out emails with links to websites that seem real but actually don't open. That's why always clicking on any links in text messages is not a good idea. If you're not sure whether the website is legitimate, do a quick search online to see if other people have reported it as being a scam site.
- Is the grammar and spelling correct? One of the giveaways that a message is from a scammer is poor grammar and spelling. Most scammers aren't native English speakers and this will often show in their writing. So if you receive a text message with lots of mistakes, it's probably not from a reputable source.
- Are there any typos? Along with bad grammar and spelling, scammers will often make mistakes with words too. This could be something like putting a space in the wrong place or misspelling a common word. If you see any typos in a text message, it's another sign that it might not be from a credible source.
- Is the sender asking for personal information? A common tactic used by scammers is to ask for personal information like your name, address, phone number, or email address. They might even promise something in return if you give them this information. Just remember, legitimate companies will never ask for personal data via text message. So if you're ever asked for this information and aren't sure about the sender, don't reply and report the number as spam instead.
- Does the message sound too good to be true? This is a classic giveaway that a message is from a scammer. They'll often make claims that seem too good to be true, like offering a free iPhone or $1,000 worth of shopping vouchers. So if the offer seems too good to be true, it probably is.
- Is the sender asking for money? Another common tactic used by scammers is to ask for money. This could be in the form of requesting payment for something that doesn't exist or trying to get you to invest in a bogus scheme. If you receive a text message asking for money, it's definitely not from a reputable source and you should report it as spam.
By being aware of these mail subscriber signs, you can protect yourself from scammers who increasingly use text messages as a way to deceive people. So if you ever receive a suspicious message, don't hesitate to report it as spam. If you're not sure about an offer, it's always best to do some research online or ask someone you trust before taking any action.
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Conclusion
In the right hands, text mail subscribers can be a positive aspect. Businesses, as well as individuals, can use them to promote their products or services in a non-invasive way. However, they’ve been taken over by scammers due to the ease and low cost. So, be on the lookout at all times to avoid getting tricked.
FAQs
What is a TextNow subscriber mean? ›
TextNow offers phone service that can be accessed on all your devices through our free apps for your phone (Android and iOS) for use over WiFi. You can also connect to a 5G/4G nationwide wireless network with TextNow by purchasing a TextNow SIM Card (for only 99¢!).
Can a scammer get your info if you reply to a text? ›The simple answer - no, you can not get hacked by replying to a text message. However, it is not a good idea to reply to texts from senders that you do not know. Even though it is unlikely for you to get hacked from replying to a text, it can cause you to receive more unwanted texts in the future.
What is text mail? ›A plain text email is an email that uses only text, without the use of images, links, graphics, HTML code, or formatting. Plain text emails often look like personal 1-to-1 communications, although most email clients support the inclusion of links and images.
How can you tell if someone is using a TextNow number? ›There are a few ways that you can track a TextNow number. One way is to use a phone tracking app, like mSpy. Another way is to use a reverse phone lookup service, like Whitepages or Truecaller.
Why would someone use a TextNow number? ›By unchaining your calls and texting from one specific phone or device, TextNow is able to provide a feature that literally no-one else can. It's all part of how we're trying to make communication available for everyone, regardless of platform.
Can your phone get hacked by answering a text message? ›In a word: no. You can't get hacked by simply answering your phone. However, you can fall prey to “vishing”—which is the verbal equivalent of “phishing.” Here, again, the intent is to create a sense of urgency, so you do not have time to sit back and think.
Can you get hacked just by opening a text message? ›With the latest malware technology, your phone can be hacked by opening a text message. You no longer need to open a site or an app in order for the hacker to gain access to your phone. To keep your phone safe from hackers, you can and should download a mobile security app.
Can someone hack into your phone by texting you? ›So to answer the question, “Can someone hack my phone by texting me?” No, your phone cannot be hacked by anyone just by receiving or opening the message. If you further follow the instructions of the text and click on the malicious link, then hacking might happen.
Why am I getting texts from email addresses? ›These messages are spam texts, also known as robotexts. The fact is, most spam texts don't come from another mobile phone. They usually come from a scammer who is sitting behind a computer sending a massive amount of texts from an email address or other messaging account.
Why do I receive text messages as emails? ›Your cellular carrier has SMS to email enabled for your service. The sender of the SMS has SMS to email enabled.
Can a text message go to an email address? ›
You can send a text message to an email address with Messages by Google. Simply enter your recipient's email address instead of their phone number when you're sending a message. You can include text and a subject (long press the Send button) when you send your message.
Can someone steal your information through a text? ›Like phishing emails, smishing texts are social-engineering scams that aim to manipulate people into turning over sensitive data such as Social Security numbers, credit card numbers and account passwords or providing access to a business's computer system.
How do I block a scammer from texting me? ›- Open your messaging app and find the text you want to block. Long-press the message and tap the Block icon. (In some apps, you may need to tap Options (three dots) > Block.)
- Tick Report spam, then tap OK.
Simply opening and reading an SMS text message is unlikely to infect your phone, but you can get a virus or malware if you download an infected attachment or click a link to a compromised website. SMS phishing attacks — known as smishing — use this technique.
Can someone trace you through TextNow? ›TextNow is a Canadian company. , they keep track of the IP address of their users, together with the identity of the user., which is verified by using the telephone number you provide upon registration. Therefore the answer is yes, TextNow phone numbers can be tracked.
How do you tell if a phone number is from an app? ›You can do this by going to Carrier Lookup. Here, you can see what carrier hosts the number. It will tell you if the number belongs to Google Voice or other apps that can generate a phone number. Once you have the source of the number, you should contact the company.
What do you dial to see if your phone is hacked? ›Use the code *#21# to see if hackers track your phone with malicious intent. You can also use this code to verify if your calls, messages, or other data are being diverted. It also shows your diverted information's status and the number to which the information is transferred.
How can I tell if someone is reading my text messages on iPhone? ›On an iPhone, Apple's Messages app lets you know if your recipient has read your message — but the sender and recipient must be using iMessages on an iPhone or iPad, too, and have read receipts enabled. To turn this on, open Settings, tap Messages and enable Send Read Receipts by flipping the switch so it is green.
How do I know if my iPhone has been hacked? ›- iPhone overheating and constant low battery. This is normally a sign that a process is running in the background without your knowledge. ...
- You're informed of strange messages from contacts. ...
- Mysterious messages and texts. ...
- iPhone performance has dropped. ...
- High data usage.
Should I delete my email after it's hacked? No, don't delete your email, even after it's been hacked. This is because most email providers will recycle old and deleted email addresses. If you're concerned, stop using your email for sending or receiving messages, but don't delete it.
Can someone hack into your phone and see what you do? ›
If your device has been compromised, it's possible for someone to hack into your phone camera and spy on you in real-time. This can be done remotely over a Wi-Fi network, and it's just one of many reasons why you should use a VPN whenever you use unsecured public Wi-Fi.
How can I stop text messages from email addresses? ›- Open the Messages app on your Android phone.
- Tap the circular account picture in the upper-right corner.
- Open Messages Settings. 2 Images. Close.
- Scroll to Spam protection.
- Enable the same from the following menu. 2 Images. Close.
- Open the messaging app.
- Access your messages with the sender you want to block.
- Tap the three dots in the upper right corner.
- Tap “Block Contact” (you can also delete the conversation from there)
- Select “Block” to confirm.
On an Android phone, open the text and tap the three-dot icon in the upper right. The steps then vary based on your phone and OS version. Either select the Block number option, or select Details and then tap Block & report spam.
Should you respond to random texts? ›With any spam text messages, you should never reply to them. Doing so confirms to the spammers that you're a real person and a potential target. Sometimes spammers try to trick you into responding by saying, "text STOP to be removed from our mailing list" or something similar.
Why am I suddenly getting spam texts? ›Why am I getting spam text messages? Spam texts are both intrusive and pose a security threat. If you are getting spam texts, it's more than likely that whoever is sending you a spam text message is trying to get access to your personal information—bank accounts, passwords, social security number, online IDs and more.
What happens if you text an email address? ›Your carrier will convert the text message to an email.
Can a phone number text an email address? ›To send an email through a text message on your phone: Open your texting app on your phone. In the recipient field, enter an email address where you would normally type in a phone number. Write your message as normal and send it.
Can someone watch you through your phone? ›Can someone remotely view your phone? Yes, unfortunately, people can access and even control your phone remotely. There are plenty of spyware apps and bugs that let people hack into your phone without you even knowing about it. It's usually through certain links or credentials that hackers do this.
How do I permanently block a scammer? ›Open your Phone app, then click on Recents at the bottom of the screen (look for the clock icon). Scroll down to the number you want to block, then tap the information icon—it's an “i” in a circle. Scroll to the bottom of the page, then select Block this Caller.
Can I block a number that keeps texting me? ›
Follow these steps to block a number from texting you:
Open the "Messages" app. Open the conversation with the person you want to block. Tap the "More" icon. Select "Block number"
Your device may suddenly become sluggish or apps may not load correctly. Battery life may decrease as well. Another potential sign of a virus is when unexpected ads pop up or phone or text messages that you never sent show up in your phone logs. A virus can also slow internet access or increase data usage.
How many subscribers does TextNow have? ›The company said it counts 14 million monthly active users and that it is profitable and growing quickly. The news comes a few months after the company announced its first unlimited wireless data plan. TextNow in June launched its “Unlimited LTE Data” plan for $40 per month.
Can an inmate call a TextNow number? ›Can TextNow receive collect calls, or calls from a correctional facility? No, I'm afraid the TextNow system cannot accept collect calls, as we have no way to bill you for individual calls.
Can someone track my phone by texting me? ›Yes! Assuming you're talking about SMS messaging, only if that someone happens to have access to your cellular provider's logs. Otherwise, no, someone can't track your location from a text. That changes if you're talking about other messaging formats.
Can you trace a TextFree number? ›Yes, police can trace phone numbers from anonymous texting apps like TextFree, and TextNow, back to an individual through a court order. Through a valid court order, they are compelled to hand over user information, which helps police to trace a number back to an individual.
Does TextNow keep your number? ›As long as these add-ons are active, your phone number remains locked to your TextNow account. Last but definitely not least: purchasing a TextNow SIM Card for only 99¢ and activating your phone with TextNow will also lock in your number.
What app is used for inmates? ›The new Securus Mobile app* for Android lets you manage all of your communication with your incarcerated loved one from anywhere. Now you can fund a calling account so you're always ready to receive their call, check account balances, schedule and join a video visit…message an inmate… and so much more.
Can you receive jail calls on TextFree? ›While TextFree does support calls to and from inmates in correctional facilities, some facilities will block or charge more for calls to numbers that are not within their local calling area. In this case, we recommend that you contact the facility's administrators to find out what calling restrictions may be in place.
Can the police track you through TextNow? ›The apps let users send text messages and even make calls. ... Both apps allow police to access records. TextNow gives police access to the email address connected with the account, first and last name and IP address. Is it possible to use banned applications like TikTok by using a VPN?
How do you know if a fake number is texting you? ›
- The text message is unsolicited (scammers will always contact you out of the blue).
- The text sender has a long phone number (10 or 11 digits).
- The phone number is “spoofed” (i.e., it looks like it's coming from someone you know or trust).
Text messages trackers can monitor when a text message was queued, sent, and delivered successfully on Android or iOS. SMS trackers are typically external applications that can track exactly where an applicable message is throughout the sending process.
What texting app is not traceable? ›You can use Threema anonymously and protect private conversations with a PIN, which makes it one of the top non-traceable text message apps.