These scams start when you get a message saying you've won an expensive phone. All you have to do to claim it is fill out a simple survey. But the "survey" asks for personal or account information. When you see that, you really know it's bogus.
HOW IT WORKS
You receive an email or text message from a bad guy pretending to be your wireless carrier. The message says you can get a free smartphone just by completing a simple survey. It may provide a link to a website. The site asks for your account information and general opinions about your carrier. When you complete the survey and click on a button to claim the phone, it takes you to an error page.
What To Do
Remember this: if it’s too good to be true, then it likely is. Be skeptical. If you get a message promising a pricey new phone for free, it could be a scam.
Don't click on any links and don't respond to the message. It's best to delete the email, text or direct message.
Resist the urge to "win" and don't fill out a form with sensitive information, such as your account number, PIN, Social Security number or password. Remember, most companies will not send you an unsolicited email or text asking for personal or account information.
If you want to know if the offer is real, call the customer service number on your bill and ask if the survey really came from your cellphone carrier.
More Information
Keep an eye out for phony messages. Find tips on how to identify fake emails and texts here.