ScamGuard

📱 SMS Link Checker

Suspicious text? Paste the link from any SMS into ScamGuard — we expand the URL and check for fake delivery, fake bank and tax-refund scams in seconds.

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What ScamGuard checks for

  • Short URL expansion (bit.ly, t.co, tinyurl)
  • Fake delivery / courier scam detection
  • Bank phishing & 'verify account' flags
  • Tax / SARS refund scam patterns
  • Premium-rate redirect detection
  • Free verdict in seconds

⚠️ Red flags and warning signs

  • •'Your package is held' + small fee
  • •'Verify your bank account or it will be locked'
  • •Tax refund waiting — click to claim
  • •Sender is a shortcode you don't recognize
  • •Link domain doesn't match the brand

Real scam examples

Fake courier SMS

'Your parcel is held at depot. Pay R35 customs fee: http://bit.ly/...' Link goes to a fake courier site that steals card details.

Bank 'security alert' SMS

'Your account will be locked. Verify here: http://...' Link is a phishing page that captures your login and OTP.

How to protect yourself

  • Never tap links in unexpected SMS
  • Open your bank/courier app directly to check
  • Run any link through ScamGuard first
  • Never enter card details from an SMS link
  • Report scam SMS to your network's spam shortcode

ScamGuard tools you can use right now

Website Checker

Check any domain before you click.

WhatsApp Scanner

Paste a chat — get a verdict.

Screenshot Scanner

Upload a screenshot of any message.

Reverse Image Scanner

Catch stolen profile photos.

Frequently asked questions

How do I check a link in a text message?▾

Long-press the link, copy it, and paste it into ScamGuard. The destination is inspected safely server-side.

Why are SMS scam links so common?▾

SMS is cheap, and most people tap links without thinking. Smishing (SMS phishing) targets banks, couriers, tax authorities and delivery services.

Will I be charged for using the link?▾

Some scam links charge a 'small fee' that authorizes a much larger card payment. Never enter card details from an SMS link.

Is it free?▾

Yes — 3 free checks, no signup.

Related ScamGuard checkers

SMS scam checker →Link checker →Phishing link checker →Bank scam checker →

Try ScamGuard free

1 free check, no signup needed. Then create an account for unlimited investigations.

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