10 Things You Should Never Text
Text messaging is one of the most convenient ways to communicate. It’s quick, easy, and accessible. However, not everything should be sent via text. Some information is too sensitive or too risky to be shared through an unsecured medium like SMS. Here are ten things you should never text, along with explanations and safer alternatives for communication.
1. Social Security Numbers (SSNs)
Your Social Security number is one of the most critical pieces of personally identifiable information (PII). If a hacker or scammer gets access to your SSN, they can commit identity theft, open fraudulent accounts, or even file false tax returns in your name.
Why It’s a Risk
Social Security numbers are a key target for cybercriminals. Text messages can be intercepted, and if your phone is lost or stolen, your SSN can be accessed by unauthorized individuals. Even messages that are deleted can sometimes be recovered.
Alternative:
If you must share your SSN, do it over a secure, encrypted email or through a secure online portal. Even better, share it in person or over a phone call with a trusted recipient. Financial and government institutions often have secure ways to exchange this information, so check with them before sending anything via text.
2. Credit Card or Banking Information
Sending your credit card details, bank account numbers, or even your CVV code via text is highly risky. Text messages are not encrypted, meaning they can be intercepted by cybercriminals.
Why It’s a Risk
Financial fraud and identity theft are on the rise. If your banking information falls into the wrong hands, criminals can make unauthorized purchases, drain your accounts, or commit fraud in your name.
Alternative:
Use a secure payment platform like PayPal, Zelle, or Venmo when sharing payment information. If you must share banking details, use a secure banking app or encrypted email. Many banks offer secure messaging within their apps, which is a much safer alternative.
3. Login Credentials and Passwords
Many people have fallen victim to hacked accounts because they shared passwords via text. If someone gains access to your messages, they can compromise your accounts.
Why It’s a Risk
A leaked password can lead to multiple security breaches, especially if you use the same password across different accounts. Cybercriminals often use password leaks to access personal and financial data.
Alternative:
Use a password manager to share passwords securely or a service like LastPass or Bitwarden. If necessary, verbally communicate the password in person or via a secure phone call. Some password managers allow you to generate one-time passwords, adding another layer of security.
4. Protected Health Information (PHI)
Under HIPAA regulations, healthcare providers and related entities must protect sensitive patient information. Texting PHI, such as test results, medical conditions, or prescriptions, can lead to legal and privacy violations.
Why It’s a Risk
Texting PHI violates HIPAA compliance laws, leading to legal consequences and fines for healthcare providers. It can also lead to privacy breaches that compromise patient confidentiality.
Alternative:
Use HIPAA-compliant messaging apps like TigerConnect, OhMD, or encrypted patient portals to communicate sensitive health details. Patients should also be encouraged to use secure platforms when requesting medical information.
5. Confidential Work Information
Business secrets, trade secrets, or internal strategies should never be shared via text. Not only could they be intercepted, but accidental forwarding to the wrong person could have serious consequences.
Why It’s a Risk
A misplaced or leaked message containing confidential work information can lead to security breaches, financial loss, and reputational damage for companies.
Alternative:
Use secure workplace communication tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or encrypted emails to discuss confidential matters. Employers should establish policies for handling sensitive business communications.
6. Private Photos or Videos
Once you send a private photo or video, you lose control over where it might end up. Screenshots, leaks, and hacks can expose personal content to unintended audiences.
Why It’s a Risk
Many individuals have had their personal photos leaked, causing emotional and reputational harm. Even disappearing messages on apps like Snapchat can be screenshotted or recorded.
Alternative:
If you need to share private content, use secure file-sharing services with expiration times like Signal, ProtonMail, or even self-destructing messages on apps like Telegram. Always think twice before sending
7. Complaints About Work or Colleagues
Texting frustrations about your boss or coworkers can backfire. Messages can be saved, screenshotted, and forwarded, potentially harming your professional reputation.
Why It’s a Risk
Negative messages can resurface and be used against you. Employers often take workplace complaints seriously, and a text message could be considered inappropriate or unprofessional.
Alternative:
Vent in person to a trusted friend or write it down in a private journal. If you need to express concerns formally, use your company’s official HR channels.
8. Threats or Anything That Can Be Misconstrued
A joke or venting text taken out of context can have legal consequences. Threats, even if meant in jest, can be used as evidence against you.
Why It’s a Risk
Threats sent via text can be considered harassment or even criminal offenses in certain cases. Digital messages last forever and can be used as evidence in legal disputes.
Alternative:
Be mindful of what you put in writing. If you need to express strong emotions, do it in person or in a controlled setting where tone and context are clear. Better yet, don’t send anything while you are angry. Cool off and see if you still want to send something the next day. Chances are you will be able to handle it in a much better, more controlled manner.
9. Sensitive Relationship Conversations
Breaking up, discussing deep personal conflicts, or handling delicate emotional matters over text can lead to misunderstandings and emotional distress.
Why It’s a Risk
Texting lacks tone and context, making it easy for messages to be misinterpreted. Serious relationship discussions should be handled with care.
Alternative:
Have important conversations in person or at least over a video or voice call, where tone and expression can help convey meaning.
10. Unverified News or Gossip
Spreading unverified rumors or false information via text can damage reputations and cause unnecessary panic or confusion.
Why It’s a Risk
Misinformation can spread rapidly, leading to confusion and reputational harm. Once a false rumor is sent, it’s difficult to control who sees it.
Alternative:
Fact-check before sharing information. If something is truly important, share a verified news source link instead.
Why a Call Is Sometimes Better
Sometimes, a phone call is the better choice. Calls allow for tone and emotion to come through, reducing misunderstandings. For sensitive topics, real-time communication is often more appropriate and effective.
When to Choose a Call Over a Text:
Discussing sensitive personal issues
Delivering bad news
Handling urgent matters that require immediate back-and-forth
Avoiding misinterpretation of tone
Use a Reminder Service Like AppointmentReminders.com
For businesses and medical professionals, using an automated reminder service like AppointmentReminders.com ensures compliance and security.
Benefits:
Secure appointment confirmations
Using a professional service reduces the risks associated with texting sensitive information while improving communication efficiency.
While texting is a convenient way to communicate, it is not always the safest or most appropriate channel. Being mindful of what you send via text can help protect your privacy, security, and relationships. When in doubt, opt for a more secure or direct way to share sensitive information.