Fake Loan Application Text Scam
Newly documented by the FTC in January 2026: scammers send texts 'following up' on a $10,000 loan application you never submitted. The goal is to get you to call back or reply — confirming your number is active and opening the door to identity theft.
Reports
Newly documented by FTC January 2026
First documented
2025
Last active
2026-03
⚠ This page documents a reported scam pattern for educational purposes. It is not a factual determination about any specific caller or number. Sources are cited for all statistics and claims. ZeroScam is not affiliated with the FTC, FBI, or FCC.
What the scam says
Text reads: 'Hi, this is following up on your $10,000 personal loan application. We need a few details to finalize your approval. Reply YES to proceed or call [number] to discuss.' You never applied for a loan. Replying confirms your number is active. Calling connects you to a script designed to collect SSN, date of birth, and bank account details.
5 red flags
FTC issued a specific January 2026 consumer alert about this exact pattern
You cannot be approved for a loan you never applied for
Replying with even 'NO' or 'STOP' confirms your number is active to the scammer
Legitimate lenders never follow up on applications via unsolicited text
Requests for SSN and bank account 'to finalize approval' are identity theft attempts
What to do
Do not reply — not even to unsubscribe
Do not call the number provided
Delete the text immediately
If you are concerned about your credit, check your report at annualcreditreport.com
Report to FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov
Report this scam
Source
FTC Consumer Advice — January 20, 2026 alert: fake loan follow-up text scam
https://consumer.ftc.gov/phone-scams ↗Specific scam messages in this pattern
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Frequently asked questions
What is the Fake Loan Application Text Scam?▼
Newly documented by the FTC in January 2026: scammers send texts 'following up' on a $10,000 loan application you never submitted. The goal is to get you to call back or reply — confirming your number is active and opening the door to identity theft.
How do I recognize a Fake Loan Application Text Scam?▼
Red flags: FTC issued a specific January 2026 consumer alert about this exact pattern; You cannot be approved for a loan you never applied for; Replying with even 'NO' or 'STOP' confirms your number is active to the scammer.
What should I do if I receive a Fake Loan Application Text Scam?▼
Do not reply — not even to unsubscribe Do not call the number provided Delete the text immediately
How common is the Fake Loan Application Text Scam?▼
Newly documented by FTC January 2026. First documented: 2025. Source: FTC Consumer Advice — January 20, 2026 alert: fake loan follow-up text scam.
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Check your message →Source: FTC Consumer Advice — January 20, 2026 alert: fake loan follow-up text scam
First documented: 2025 · Last active: 2026-03
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