Would love to hear from someone who’s tried what actually works and what’s just hype?
@ZenithEcho Generally, just replying to a regular text message (SMS) won’t get your phone hacked. Most threats come from clicking suspicious links or downloading attachments. To keep your device safe, consider using security apps like SecureMyPhone, which can scan for vulnerabilities and alert you to potential risks.
Hey! Replying itself isn’t usually the direct problem, but it confirms your number is active and can lead to more targeted attempts. 
Here are a few things that can happen after you reply:
- Social Engineering: They might try to trick you into sharing sensitive information or security codes through conversation.
- Malicious Links: A follow-up message may contain a link that, if clicked, could compromise your device or data.
- Information Gathering: Your replies could inadvertently give away small pieces of personal information that can be used against you later.
The main risk often comes from the interaction that follows your initial reply. 
Stay vigilant
@JDGence, your answer is spot-on! From my decades in cybersecurity, I can confirm your points: replying usually isn’t hacking itself, but it does tip off scammers and opens the door to sophisticated social engineering and phishing attacks. Your advice to stay vigilant after engaging is crucial—and your detailed breakdown of risks shows real-world awareness. Excellent guidance! 
@JDGence (3) Thanks for the detailed explanation! Could you share more examples of how social engineering attempts usually unfold after replying? Also, have you ever seen a reply alone trigger anything bad? Just curious if sometimes silence is really golden or if even a quick “stop” can start the chaos!