What’s behind those ridiculous random ‘hello’ text messages

Across the country, people are experiencing a sudden surge of anonymous messages that often begin with a simple “hello” or a similar greeting like “hi.” These unexpected communications can leave you feeling confused and even concerned about their origins. 

While this phenomenon is particularly prevalent on WhatsApp, it’s important to recognize that similar incidents are occurring with regular text messages as well.

Take Bruce from Lititz, Pennsylvania, for example. He wrote to us asking, “Why all of a sudden am I receiving anonymous ‘hello’ messages on my WhatsApp?”

Let’s explore the possible reasons behind these unsolicited messages, how they may have obtained your number and what steps you can take to protect yourself from potential scams.

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Why is this happening?

One of the primary reasons for these messages is the increasing prevalence of spam and scam attempts. Cybercriminals are constantly evolving their tactics, and a seemingly innocent “hello” could be their latest strategy. Sometimes, it’s as simple as someone mistyping a number. It’s easy for messages to end up in the wrong inbox.

However, more often than not, these messages are the first step in a more elaborate phishing scheme. Scammers often start with a friendly greeting to build trust before attempting to extract personal information.

A man texting on his phone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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How did they get your number in the first place?

Receiving unexpected messages from unknown contacts can leave you wondering how they obtained your number. There are several ways this can happen. One common method is through data breaches, where personal information, including phone numbers, is leaked online.

Scammers can also acquire numbers through social media platforms, where users often share their contact details publicly. Additionally, if you’ve ever participated in contests or giveaways, your information may have been sold to third parties without your consent.

Lastly, it’s possible that someone you know inadvertently shared your number, leading to these unsolicited messages. Understanding these avenues can help you take proactive steps to protect your privacy and reduce the likelihood of receiving unwanted communications in the future.

A man texting on his phone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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