Have you ever gotten an odd text message that begins with a name you don’t recognize, describing a scenario you’ve never experienced? Perhaps someone believes you are “Emily from the gym” or “Daniel from the yacht club.” You respond with a straightforward “wrong number,” anticipating the chat to conclude — but instead, the sender becomes unusually friendly, inquisitive, and insistent.

If this resonates with you, it’s likely that you’ve been targeted by a scam — and you are certainly not the only one. According to cybersecurity firm McAfee, as mentioned by CNBC, a shocking 25% of Americans have received these kinds of unsolicited texts. This scam strategy initially gained popularity in 2022, but it is now evolving into more sophisticated and concerning forms.

These schemes are referred to as “pig-butchering scams,” a disturbing nomenclature that reveals their manipulative essence. Deriving from agricultural terminology, the expression signifies how scammers “fatten up” their victims emotionally and psychologically before financially exploiting them. Such scams frequently imitate long-term romance frauds, with con artists pretending to be affluent, successful persons who suddenly express interest in you. Gradually, they cultivate trust and eventually direct the discussion toward cryptocurrency investments or other seemingly incredible financial opportunities.

Experts informed CNBC that the rise of generative AI is making these scams even more persuasive. AI technologies enable scammers to create personalized, naturally sounding messages and adapt their approaches to appear more human — and the outcomes are proving effective.

In 2024 alone, Americans lost $470 million to text message scams, according to the Federal Trade Commission — a fivefold increase from 2020.

What’s even more concerning is the human toll behind these schemes. Many of these scams are operated by extensive criminal networks located in Southeast Asia, where workers are frequently trafficked under false pretenses and compelled to work in scam centers under constant observation. These individuals are promised legitimate employment, only to find themselves ensnared in digital sweatshops, coerced into deceiving people globally.

However, not everyone involved is a victim. Some of these operations are conducted by organized online gambling syndicates, staffed by individuals who are fully aware of their roles in the scam.

So, how can you safeguard yourself? The best defense is straightforward: do not engage. If you receive a message from someone asserting to be “Emily from the gym” or “Daniel from the yacht club” — and you are unfamiliar with them — disregard it. If the number originates from an unusual area code or a place you’ve never visited, don’t reply. There’s no necessity to correct them or play along. Simply block the number and proceed.

Remaining vigilant and refusing to engage is your most effective protection against becoming the next victim.