Afterpay text scam: is that message real?
Editorially reviewed · Last updated June 16, 2026
Yes — this is a scam. Afterpay doesn't text you links to "restore" or "unlock" your account.
Other versions you might get: A text about an order or purchase you never made, a "your payment failed, update your card" prompt, or "Your Afterpay account is locked — verify now."
What to do right now
- Don't tap the link or reply. Even "STOP" tells them the number is live and resold.
- Check the real way. Open the Afterpay app yourself or type afterpay.com — never follow the text. If there's a real issue, it'll show there.
- If you already tapped or entered details: change your Afterpay password from the app, turn on two-factor, and call your bank to watch for or freeze charges if you gave card details.
- Report it. Forward the text to 7726 (SPAM), then file at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
- Delete the message.
How to make sure it never bites you
You got this because your number is on a list scammers buy and resell, so one text usually means more are coming. Getting your number scrubbed and adding a filter between you and them stops most of it — see how to stop spam texts for good.
Help protect someone else
Scams spread because people stay quiet about them. If this could have fooled you, it can fool someone you know — a parent, a friend, the family group chat. Passing it on is the easiest good thing you'll do today. It's safe to forward, and stands on its own as a record for a bank or the police.