Members of the public have reported receiving a text message from an unknown number that says there is an emergency and help is needed.

“These messages are coming from phone numbers not in your mobile contacts,” Scamwatch said in its warning to the public.

“For example, the text message might read, ‘Please call me back right away. It is an emergency I need your help!’.”

Scamwatch said people who have called the number back report being verbally abused by a recording on the other end.

“This is a new and emerging issue,” the alert said.

“While people have not yet reported losing money as a result of these calls, you may find the content of the recording distressing.

“Scamwatch therefore advises that you exercise caution or do not respond to these text messages.”

The NSW Police Force have taken to social media to share the warning with their 1.1 million followers to help spread the word about the text messages.