Description

**Scam Type:** Wrong-number text / Romance scam attempt **Date of Incident:** January 22, 2026 **Method of Contact:** Text message (SMS) **Scammer’s Phone Carrier:** Verizon (identified via carrier lookup) **Description of the Scam:** On January 22, 2026, the owner of phone number 816-977-0544 received an unsolicited text message from +1 (727) 744-1425 asking, “Do you have time to chat?” Shortly afterward, the sender sent a photo of a woman and claimed to be someone named “Lisa,” asking if the recipient was their friend “Hannah.” When informed they had the wrong number, the sender apologized but continued engaging and asked for the recipient’s name. This behavior is consistent with a known “wrong-number” scam technique commonly used to initiate romance scams or future financial fraud. No money was lost, and screenshots of the messages were preserved. **Warning Signs Observed:** * Unsolicited message from an unknown number * Friendly or casual opener to initiate conversation * Use of a personal photo to appear legitimate * False claim of familiarity or mistaken identity * Continued engagement after acknowledging a wrong number * Attempt to collect personal information **Consumer Warning & Prevention Tips:** Consumers should be cautious of unexpected text messages from unknown numbers that attempt to start friendly conversations or claim a “wrong number.” These scams often begin innocently but may escalate into romance scams, investment fraud, or cryptocurrency schemes. Do not share personal information, do not continue the conversation, and block the sender. As an example prevention measure, scam or robocall activity associated with Verizon numbers can be reported by forwarding details to **[[email protected]](mailto:[email protected])**. **Outcome:** No financial loss occurred.