I got this text message yesterday claiming to be from AT&T with an “exclusive coupon code” for Temu. The code was BELIKTAL and the message had a link to what looked like temu.com.
I tested it so you don’t have to.
The Code Doesn’t Work
First thing I did was try the code at Temu checkout. Got an error message saying “Sorry, this code is invalid.” So even if you ignore everything else I’m about to say, the coupon is completely fake and won’t save you anything.
The Link Is Malware
I ran the link through a proxy to see where it actually goes. It doesn’t take you to Temu at all. Instead it redirects to a malware site that bombards you with popup ads and tries to run javascript in your browser. This is the kind of site that attempts to install tracking cookies, hijack your browser settings, or worse.
Red Flags I Noticed
The message was forwarded by a random telephone number rather than a confirmed AT&T short code. There is also a typo at the end of the message which reads shop aind save rather than shop and save which is quite common with these scam operations that send mass text messages. AT&T does not collaborate with Temu to deliver you coupon codes through text.
When you receive such a message, they are phishing messages and are either attempting to steal your data or they are attempting to infect your computer.
What To Do Don’t click the link. Don’t try the code.
Block the number and block it as spam. In case you have already used the link, scan your computer with the help of malware and delete your browser history. Delete the text and move on.
