DURHAM, N.C. (WTVD) — With the statewide general election just weeks away, political texts and phone calls are likely to ramp up. But some of those messages could be scams designed to steal your money or personal information.
An ABC11 viewer contacted Troubleshooter Diane Wilson after receiving more than 1,000 political text messages. She did not want to appear on camera but shared the messages to show just how persistent the problem has become.
Some texts asked her to complete voter registration, even though she says she is already registered. Others asked for donations. Alyssa Parker with the Better Business Bureau of Eastern Carolinas said scammers may pose as political candidates or organizations to take advantage of voters' emotions and political interests.
"We really want to urge voters out there that if you get anything that's a little suspicious, or really a text message in general, don't worry about it. Don't click on links. If you want to support a specific candidate, if you want to be involved, you know, in the political world in any capacity, reach out to that candidate directly. Reach out to that political party directly," Parker said.
The BBB also warned voters to be cautious when responding to political surveys, particularly those requesting personal information.
If you decide to donate to a candidate, read the fine print before submitting your payment. Parker said donors should check whether a contribution is a one-time payment or an automatically recurring donation.
The ABC11 viewer said she has tried reporting the unwanted messages as spam and replying "STOP," but the texts continue.
The North Carolina State Board of Elections warns that some political texts come from third-party advocacy groups that may have outdated voter information. A message asking you to register or update your information does not necessarily mean there is a problem with your voter registration.
You can learn more about the rules for political campaign calls and texts or file a complaint through the FCC's website..
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