Have you received a Giffgaff “That Text Was Charged” message and wondered whether it’s genuine? In many cases, this notification is completely legitimate and simply informs you that a text message you sent or received has resulted in a charge. However, fraudsters also impersonate mobile networks like Giffgaff in SMS phishing (smishing) campaigns, making it important to verify any unexpected message before taking action.
This guide explains what the message means, when it may be legitimate, how to identify scam texts, and the steps to take if you believe you’ve been targeted.
What Does “That Text Was Charged” Mean?
A “That Text Was Charged” message generally indicates that a text message has incurred a charge outside your normal plan or goodybag allowance.
This may happen if you:
- Sent a text to a premium-rate shortcode.
- Entered a TV competition or public vote.
- Made a charity donation via text.
- Signed up for a subscription text service.
- Used a premium SMS service.
According to Giffgaff, premium-rate texts are charged separately from your regular allowance, and some services may also charge for incoming subscription messages.
Is the Message Always Legitimate?
No.
Although Giffgaff sends legitimate notifications about premium-rate charges, scammers often imitate mobile providers by sending fake SMS messages designed to:
- Steal your Giffgaff login credentials.
- Collect banking or payment information.
- Trick you into installing malware.
- Convince you to pay fake fees.
For this reason, never assume a text is genuine simply because it appears to come from Giffgaff.
Signs the Message Could Be a Scam
Watch out for these warning signs:
- The message contains an unfamiliar web link.
- It asks you to “verify” your account immediately.
- It requests your password, PIN, or payment information.
- It creates unnecessary urgency or threatens account suspension.
- The sender asks you to click a link to avoid additional charges.
- The website address doesn’t belong to Giffgaff.
Legitimate mobile providers do not ask customers to reveal passwords or one-time verification codes through text messages.
How to Verify Whether the Charge Is Real
Instead of clicking any link in the message:
- Sign in to your Giffgaff account using the official website or app.
- Review your recent usage and account balance.
- Check your usage statement for premium-rate activity.
- Think back to whether you recently entered a competition, donated by text, or subscribed to a premium service.
- Contact Giffgaff support if you cannot identify the charge.
Checking your account directly is the safest way to confirm whether the notification is genuine.
What If You Didn’t Send the Text?
If you don’t recognize the charge:
- Change your Giffgaff password immediately.
- Check your account for unusual activity.
- Contact Giffgaff customer support.
- Contact your bank if payment details were disclosed.
- Run a security scan if you clicked a suspicious link.
- Continue monitoring your accounts for unauthorized transactions.
Acting quickly can help reduce the risk of financial loss.
How to Stop Premium Text Charges
If you’ve accidentally subscribed to a premium text service:
- Text STOP (or STOP ALL if applicable) to the shortcode, if instructed by the provider.
- Contact the company operating the premium service to cancel the subscription.
- Consider blocking premium-rate services through your account where available.
Giffgaff notes that blocking incoming messages alone may not stop charges if you remain subscribed, so cancelling the subscription is usually necessary.
Tips to Avoid Giffgaff SMS Scams
Protect yourself by following these best practices:
- Only log in through the official Giffgaff website or mobile app.
- Never click links in unexpected text messages.
- Don’t share passwords, PINs, or verification codes.
- Keep your phone updated with the latest software.
- Install apps only from trusted sources.
- Monitor your mobile account regularly for unexpected charges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did I receive a “That Text Was Charged” message?
It usually means a premium-rate text service generated a charge that isn’t included in your standard allowance.
Can scammers fake Giffgaff text messages?
Yes. Criminals frequently send fake SMS messages pretending to be trusted companies. Always verify messages by signing into your account directly instead of using links in the SMS.
Can I get a refund?
If the charge resulted from a legitimate premium-rate service you knowingly used, refunds may not always be available. However, if you believe the charge was unauthorized or fraudulent, contact Giffgaff as soon as possible to discuss your options.
How do I report suspicious Giffgaff texts?
Forward suspected spam text messages to 7726 (SPAM) where supported by your mobile network and report suspicious activity to Giffgaff through its official support channels.
Final Verdict
A Giffgaff “That Text Was Charged” notification is often a legitimate alert relating to premium-rate text services. However, because scammers regularly impersonate mobile providers, you should always verify unexpected charges through your Giffgaff account rather than clicking links contained in text messages.
If you’re unsure whether a message is genuine, contact Giffgaff directly using its official support channels.
Official Resources
- Giffgaff Help Centre: Giffgaff Help Centre
- Giffgaff Pricing (Premium Text Charges): Giffgaff Pricing Guide
- Giffgaff Usage Statement Guide: Usage Statement Guide
- Giffgaff Special Charges Code of Practice: Special Charges Code of Practice
- UK National Cyber Security Centre Phishing Advice: NCSC Phishing Guidance
Internal Links
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