Text Message to Watch Out For
Text message scams continue to be a major issue—especially during the holidays. Scammers ramp up their efforts when people are stressed, busy, and more likely to take a chance on something that sounds like easy money. A new scam has been circulating recently, and I want to make sure no one in our community gets caught by it.
Living in North Bend, I received this text message. If you receive a text message claiming you can earn $500 every week just for wearing a Monster Energy Drink jersey a few times a week, be aware: it’s a scam.
The message usually looks something like this:
“Christmas Money Has Arrived! Earn $500 every week just by wearing a Monster Energy Drink jersey 3 times a week while going about your daily routine. No application fees—are you interested?”
At first glance, it sounds harmless—and even believable. After all, companies do sponsor athletes and influencers. That’s exactly why scammers use this approach: it’s just realistic enough to make people respond.
How This Scam Actually Works
The scammers rarely give details upfront. Instead, once you reply, the real scheme begins. Most people who engage receive follow-up messages like:
- “You just need to cover a small shipping fee for the jersey.”
- “There’s a refundable deposit required before we can send your kit.”
- “We need your personal information to set up payments.”
This is where the damage happens.
The shipping fee is fake.
The deposit is never refunded.
Any personal information you provide can be used for identity theft or sold to other scammers.
Once you pay or share details, the scammers disappear—and your money is gone.
Why Messages Like This Are So Dangerous
They promise easy holiday cash
Scammers know financial pressure is higher this time of year, and “extra Christmas money” is tempting.
They use real, recognizable brands
Monster Energy has nothing to do with this scam. Well-known companies are used to make it look legitimate.
They avoid obvious red flags
No links, no attachments—just a simple question designed to get you to respond.
They target emotional vulnerability
Phrases like “Christmas Money Has Arrived!” are crafted to trigger urgency and hope.
What You Should Do If You Receive This Text
- Do not reply. Any response confirms your number is active.
- Do not click anything if a link is included.
- Block the number on your phone.
- Delete the message so it doesn’t get mixed in with real texts.
- Warn others. A quick heads-up can save someone from losing money.
What Monster Energy (and Other Brands) Have Said
Brands like Monster Energy, Red Bull, and others have issued warnings in the past about fake “brand ambassador” scams. Legitimate sponsorships:
- Do not come through random text messages
- Do not require fees or deposits
- Are handled through official websites or verified corporate channels
If it didn’t come from an official source, it isn’t real.
Stay Safe Out There
Wherever you are in the valley, whether you’re in North Bend, Snoqualmie, Issaquah, Fall City or Carnation, I really value this area and the people here. I want to ensure everyone stays safe from scams. If you have any questions about any kind of scam please do reach out.
Trust your instincts. If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Scammers constantly invent new ways to trick honest people, and this “wear a jersey for $500 a week” scheme is just the latest example.
Stay alert, stay skeptical, and please share this with anyone who might be vulnerable to scams like this.
