Text (SMS) cyber-attacks are on the rise: have you received a text message about unpaid tolls from your EZ-pass?
You may be careful with suspicious emails, but are you just as careful with incoming text messages? Smishing (the name comes from a portmanteau of SMS & Phishing) is a type of cyber-attack that targets individuals through text messages (SMS). This can be even more dangerous than email Phishing.
Please read this article to better understand this type of attack.
Smishing can be even more dangerous than email Phishing because you may not be aware that links in incoming text messages are just as risky as links in emails!
What is Smishing?
Smishing involves cybercriminals sending deceptive text messages to trick recipients into revealing personal or financial information, clicking on malicious links, or downloading harmful software. These messages often appear to come from trusted sources, such as banks, government agencies, or well-known companies, and use social engineering tactics to create a sense of urgency, curiosity, or fear. This manipulation prompts the recipient to take an undesired action, such as providing sensitive information or installing malware.
How Does Smishing Work?
- Deceptive Messages: Attackers craft convincing messages that mimic legitimate communications. These messages may claim that there is an urgent issue with your bank account, a package delivery problem, an unpaid toll from a recent trip or a special offer that requires immediate action.
- Malicious Links: The text messages often contain links that direct the recipient to a fake website designed to steal personal information or install malware on their device.
- Social Engineering: By creating a sense of urgency or fear, such as warning about account suspension or unauthorized transactions, attackers manipulate recipients into acting quickly without verifying the authenticity of the message.
Why is Smishing Effective?
With approximately 3.5 billion smartphones worldwide capable of receiving text messages from any number, smishing has become a lucrative method for cybercriminals. Many users are aware of the risks associated with clicking links in emails but are less cautious with text messages. This trust in text messages makes smishing particularly effective.
How to Protect Yourself from Smishing
- Be Skeptical: Treat any unsolicited text message with caution, especially if it asks for personal information or prompts you to click on a link.
- Verify the Source: If you receive a suspicious message, contact the organization directly using a known and trusted method, such as their official website or customer service number.
- Avoid Clicking Links: Do not click on links in unsolicited text messages. If you are unsure, then manually enter the website address into your browser.
- Report Smishing: Report suspicious messages to your mobile carrier and relevant authorities to help combat smishing attacks.
Conclusion
Smishing is a growing cyber threat that exploits the trust many people have in text messages. By staying informed and vigilant, you can protect yourself from falling victim to these deceptive attacks. Always verify the authenticity of any message before taking action, and remember that legitimate organizations will never ask for sensitive information via text message.
Stay safe and stay informed!
If you have questions about this, please let us know and we will be happy to assist you.
Take care,
