06/03/2026
Keep your eyes out for this!!
Good afternoon VFW accredited representatives,
Recently, we were notified that many veterans have been receiving text messages that appear to have come from the VA. An example of one of these texts is below:
“VA Benefits & Services: Your VA profile is missing your home address, mailing address, or both. Update it now so you don't miss important benefits information: va.gov/profile”
After doing some research we have learned that this is a phishing scam and that scammers are spoofing the Department of Veterans Affairs, preying on veterans by sending alarming texts that compel them to click a link and "update" sensitive personal information on a fake but legitimate-looking website. We have notified the VA of this scam, and it has been forwarded to the VA Fraud Prevention team.
If you or one or your veterans receive one of these texts:
Never click links in unexpected text messages claiming to be from the VA.
Verify directly: If you suspect your profile may actually need an update, navigate to VA.gov directly or contact VA at (800) 827-1000 – do not use the link in the text!
Contact VA: If you have been the target of a scam or suspect fraudulent activity, contact VA immediately at 1-800-827-1000.
Report: Veterans who suspect they have experienced fraud can find out more at VSAFE.gov or by calling (833) 38V-SAFE. (833-388-7233) Reports of fraud can also be submitted to the Federal Trade Commission online at https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/.
While the VA does occasionally send text messages for appointment reminders or claim updates, they will never demand that a veteran click a link in a text to supply personal or address information.
Thank you,
Chris Macinkowicz
Deputy Director
National Veterans Service (NVS)
VFW Washington Office
200 Maryland Ave., N.E.
Washington, D.C. 20002
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