A stranger brings up investing
Real investment pros don't find clients through wrong-number texts.
Scam teardown
The fake "wrong number" text
By Lajhem Cambridge, Founder of Lorna · Published Oct 31, 2026
Quick answer
A text that seems meant for someone else can be the start of a fake investing scam. If you reply, the stranger gets friendly, then offers to coach you on crypto or stocks. A website shows fake profits, and when you try to take your money out, they ask for a fee, tax or fine first. The money is gone.
What it looks like
Unknown number
- Hey Dave, when's the meeting scheduled for again?
- I'm not Dave, you must have the wrong number.
- Hey, sorry about that! I think I've got the wrong person. I was trying to reach someone named Dave, but while I've got you here—how's your day going? 😅
A message for "someone else."
It looks like an honest mistake from an unknown number.
A polite reply opens the door.
Even a short "wrong number" reply can start a chat.
They keep the chat going.
Instead of saying goodbye, they ask about your day. They build trust first. Investing comes up later.
How it unfolds
Step 1: A text for the "wrong number"
Step 2: Friendly chats that build trust
Step 3: Investing "coaching" or a "professor" group chat
Step 4: A website shows fake profits
Step 5: Pay a "fee" or "tax" to take money out
Three warning signs
Big profits, little risk
A website that shows your money growing fast can be showing fake numbers.
You have to pay to get your own money
A fee, tax or fine before you can take money out is a sign of a scam. So is an offer to send a courier to your home to pick up cash.
Your calm next step
It's best not to reply.
If a text was meant for someone else, just delete it.
Look it up first.
Search the person or company with "review," "scam" or "complaint," and check licenses with the free search tool at Investor.gov.
Keep money and your address private.
It's best not to send money, crypto or cash to someone you only know online, and never share your address for a cash pickup.
Already paid? Call your bank right away. Then report it at ic3.gov and ReportFraud.ftc.gov. Age 60 or older? The Elder Justice Hotline at 1-833-FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311) can help you file.
Sources: FBI IC3, June 15, 2026 · FTC, April 16, 2026 · SEC, Dec. 22, 2025 · California DFPI, Pig Butchering Scam Playbook (example text)
Not sure?
Text Lorna and describe the call before you call anyone back. Lorna will help you check if it's real.
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