Obnoxious Scammers are Flooding Arizona Voters with Text Messages

If I get one more text from a political candidate telling me how to vote and why I should give their campaign money to save the world, I think my head may explode.

Have you been inundated with spam text messages lately? I mean, relentlessly flooded with messages that read something like this:

This is [Famous Political Person] here. I just wanted to let you know that [Presidential Candiate A] is counting on you to make their campaign a success. We can't SAVE THE WORLD from [Presidentail Candidate B] and their dangerous agenda without your support. Won't you make a donation right now? Everything helps! Click the link and SAVE OUR COUNTRY!!

Setting aside the gross hyperbole, these text messages are not only maddening but potentially dangerous.

READ: Look Out, Arizona! This Scam Isn't Only Annoying it Could Be Deadly

Why Are Arizona Voters Getting Flooded with Text Messages?

If you've ever participated in one of those "who would you vote for, and what are your issues"-type surveys, you've been tossed into the mix for these messages.

If you've ever made even a small donation to a campaign or political action committee, you probably gave them your cell number.

Get our free mobile app

Well, they've generously shared your number with countless others who would like your eyeballs on their message.

Have you noticed fewer campaign mailers crammed into your mailbox? The ones we toss into the trash the minute they come in the house. Politicians know you're not reading them, and they end up becoming expensive garbage.

READ: Doing THIS One Thing During an Arizona Election is Illegal!

They've learned that text messaging is a much cheaper way to reach targeted voters, so they've added it to their arsenal of tricks.

Arizona is now considered a swing state, so if it feels like you're being deluged with campaign messages, it's not your imagination: you are. Politicos are making a desperate plea for your vote and working hard to keep your attention top-of-mind on their agenda.

Think Before You Click to Donate: It Could Be a Scam

Between 2021 and 2022, campaign-related emails and telephone calls dropped dramatically, but text messages jumped 157%. People tend to open and respond to text messages more often than either emails or calls.

The crushing flow of text messages has now opened the door to scammers. These nefarious texters leverage your political emotions and then disguise themselves as a political campaign. Since you don't actually know who's sending the text message, be careful before clicking the link they provide.

Don't Click on Text Messages from Candidates, Arizona!

Stay vigilant and follow these tips before responding to political text messages:

1. Verify the sender: Check if the message is from a known campaign or organization. Official campaigns usually have clear identifiers. If you're not sure, don't interact with it.
2. Never click links: If you'd like to make a donation or learn more about a candidate or issue, go to the source website and click the donate button.
3. Report suspicious messages: If you receive a suspicious text, report it to your cell phone carrier or the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). You can forward suspicious text messages to the FTC at SPAM (7726).
4. Use blocking features: Most smartphones have features to block unwanted texts and calls. You may have to make blocking a part-time job, but blocking unsolicited messages is the best way to slow the flow.

The influx of messages will likely ramp up between now and the election. Stay safe, and check before you click. Don't become a casualty in the war for votes.

Sources: Fox10phoenix.com | hoodline.com | Federal Trade Commission (FTC)