Fake News: The Viral “Trump Arrested” Text Will Attack Your Bank

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Written by: Lapain Epuran

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A false warning has been circulating online claiming that opening a text message stating “Trump was arrested” will allow scammers to attack your bank account. This viral scam warning likely began circulating in late 2024, but there is no evidence that such a text message exists or poses any real threat.

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Understanding the Viral Hoax

In late 2024, social media users started sharing urgent warnings that opening a text message stating “Trump was arrested” would give scammers access to your bank account.

The warning spread rapidly on social media, with users copying and pasting the same message:

“Warning! If you get a text that Trump was arrested don’t open it because it will attack your bank account. Tell all your friends.”

Despite its virality, this warning appears to be completely false.

No Evidence the Threat is Real

There are currently no known screenshots or transcripts of any such “Trump arrested” text message in existence.

Without any evidence that this text was actually sent to anyone, it is highly likely this is a baseless hoax designed to spread fear.

Cybersecurity experts have not identified or verified any text message scams matching this description.

Similar Viral Hoaxes

This “Trump arrested” scam alert bears similarities to other viral hoaxes that have spread on social media in the past.

In October 2016, a false rumor circulated warning users not to click on a “Donald Trump Arrested” social media post, claiming it installed a virus. That rumor was completely unsubstantiated.

Social media scams and hoaxes frequently exploit public interest in politics and current events to drive engagement and shares.

No Technical Explanation

The warning offers no technical explanation of how simply opening a text message could grant access to your bank account.

Legitimate cybersecurity experts note that this hypothetical attack vector makes little sense.

No additional context or details are provided about how the supposed scam operates. This lack of specificity suggests it is fictional.

How to Spot “Trump Arrested” Text Scam Hoaxes

While this particular “Trump arrested” text appears to be fictional, similar viral scams may spread in the future. Here are some tips for spotting false warnings:

  • Look for verifiable details – Legitimate warnings explain specifically how a scam works and provide concrete evidence like screenshots. Be skeptical of vague claims with no specifics.
  • Investigate the source – Scam warnings that cite unnamed “experts” or “officials” should be verified. Always look for trusted cybersecurity sources.
  • Search for other reports – If it were a real widespread scam text, there would be reports and confirmation across news outlets and cybersecurity firms.
  • Fact-check before sharing – Don’t spread unverified warnings, even if aimed at helping others. Always double-check the claims.
  • Update cautions over time – Make sure to update others if a warning is found to be false after further verification.

Frequently Asked Questions on the “Trump Arrested” Text Scam

1. What exactly is the “Trump arrested” text scam?

The “Trump arrested” text scam is a viral hoax warning people not to open a text message that claims “Trump was arrested.” According to the false warning spreading online, opening this text will allow scammers to attack your bank account. In reality, there is no evidence that such a text exists or poses any real threat.

2. How did this false warning start spreading?

The first reports of the “Trump arrested” text scam date back to late 2024. The exact origin is unknown, but the false warning went viral on social media as users copied a message warning friends not to open the supposed text. With no evidence that the text exists, this appears to be a completely unfounded hoax.

3. Has anyone actually received the scam text message?

No. Despite the viral nature of the warning itself, there are no known screenshots or transcripts of the “Trump arrested” text actually being sent. Without any evidence that someone received this text for real, this scam alert appears fabricated.

4. How can a text message gain access to your bank account?

Legitimate cybersecurity experts say there is no technical explanation for how simply opening a text could allow access to your bank account. Text scams typically rely on users clicking malicious links or providing sensitive personal information. This scam claim does not make sense from a technical standpoint.

5. What are some tips for spotting false warnings like this?

There are a few ways to identify fabricated scam alerts like the “Trump arrested” text:

  • Look for concrete evidence like screenshots of the actual text.
  • Check whether cybersecurity experts can confirm the threat is real.
  • Search for other reports from credible news sources.
  • Be skeptical of claims citing unnamed “officials” as sources.
  • Fact check before spreading unverified warnings.

6. How can I protect myself from real text message scams?

Although this specific threat is unfounded, here are some tips to avoid actual text and SMS phishing scams:

  • Never click questionable links in texts from unknown senders.
  • Avoid providing personal info like passwords over text.
  • Use mobile security apps to filter potential spam texts.
  • Report suspicious texts to your provider’s spam number.
  • Set up two-factor authentication on accounts when possible.

7. What should I do if I see this “Trump arrested” scam warning?

If you see friends or family sharing this false warning, let them know politely that there is no evidence this text scam exists. Encourage them to fact-check viral claims before spreading them further to avoid contributing to hoaxes.

The Bottom Line

While President Trump’s indictments have been the subject of speculation, there is currently no evidence that a “Trump arrested” text message poses any real danger to your bank account.

This viral scam warning appears to be a fabricated hoax. Nonetheless, text message scams do occur, so it remains important to stay vigilant against phishing attempts over SMS.

If you receive an unsolicited text, especially one requesting personal information or urging you to click suspicious links, exercise caution before providing any response. Verify the sender and double check any urgent claims before reacting or spreading warnings further.

How to Stay Safe Online

Here are 10 basic security tips to help you avoid malware and protect your device:

  1. Use a good antivirus and keep it up-to-date.

    Shield Guide

    It's essential to use a good quality antivirus and keep it up-to-date to stay ahead of the latest cyber threats. We are huge fans of Malwarebytes Premium and use it on all of our devices, including Windows and Mac computers as well as our mobile devices. Malwarebytes sits beside your traditional antivirus, filling in any gaps in its defenses, and providing extra protection against sneakier security threats.

  2. Keep software and operating systems up-to-date.

    updates-guide

    Keep your operating system and apps up to date. Whenever an update is released for your device, download and install it right away. These updates often include security fixes, vulnerability patches, and other necessary maintenance.

  3. Be careful when installing programs and apps.

    install guide

    Pay close attention to installation screens and license agreements when installing software. Custom or advanced installation options will often disclose any third-party software that is also being installed. Take great care in every stage of the process and make sure you know what it is you're agreeing to before you click "Next."

  4. Install an ad blocker.

    Ad Blocker

    Use a browser-based content blocker, like AdGuard. Content blockers help stop malicious ads, Trojans, phishing, and other undesirable content that an antivirus product alone may not stop.

  5. Be careful what you download.

    Trojan Horse

    A top goal of cybercriminals is to trick you into downloading malware—programs or apps that carry malware or try to steal information. This malware can be disguised as an app: anything from a popular game to something that checks traffic or the weather.

  6. Be alert for people trying to trick you.

    warning sign

    Whether it's your email, phone, messenger, or other applications, always be alert and on guard for someone trying to trick you into clicking on links or replying to messages. Remember that it's easy to spoof phone numbers, so a familiar name or number doesn't make messages more trustworthy.

  7. Back up your data.

    backup sign

    Back up your data frequently and check that your backup data can be restored. You can do this manually on an external HDD/USB stick, or automatically using backup software. This is also the best way to counter ransomware. Never connect the backup drive to a computer if you suspect that the computer is infected with malware.

  8. Choose strong passwords.

    lock sign

    Use strong and unique passwords for each of your accounts. Avoid using personal information or easily guessable words in your passwords. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your accounts whenever possible.

  9. Be careful where you click.

    cursor sign

    Be cautious when clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources. These could potentially contain malware or phishing scams.

  10. Don't use pirated software.

    Shady Guide

    Avoid using Peer-to-Peer (P2P) file-sharing programs, keygens, cracks, and other pirated software that can often compromise your data, privacy, or both.

To avoid potential dangers on the internet, it's important to follow these 10 basic safety rules. By doing so, you can protect yourself from many of the unpleasant surprises that can arise when using the web.

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