Asked to enter your email address and password to open a party invite? That’s a scam
Scammers send fake party invitations by text or email and ask you to enter your email password or a code to open them. Entering your credentials lets them steal your account.
How it works
You receive a text or email claiming you are invited to a graduation or summer party. The message includes a link or instruction asking you to enter your email address and password, or a special pass code, to view the invitation details. When you enter this information, scammers capture your login credentials and can access your email account and linked services.
Red flags to watch for
- Unexpected party invite from someone you do not know
- Message asks for email password or secret code
- Link looks slightly off or comes from unfamiliar sender
- Urgent tone telling you to act quickly to see the invite
- Generic greeting instead of using your real name
What to do
Do not enter your email password or any codes into links from unsolicited messages. If you know the sender, contact them directly by phone to confirm they sent it. Delete the message. If you already entered your password, change it immediately and watch your account for unusual activity. Report the message to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
If this reached you
Source: FTC . Scam Sentinel summarizes official guidance in plain language; it is a decision aid, not a guarantee.