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Smishing is a phishing attack that uses text messages (SMS) to trick victims into revealing their personal information or clicking on malicious links. It’s a combination of “SMS” and “phishing.”
Here’s how it works:
* Scammers send text messages disguised as coming from legitimate sources like banks, credit card companies, or even government agencies.
* These messages often contain a link that leads to a fake website appearing identical to the real one of the supposed sender.
* When victims enter their personal information (e.g., passwords, credit card details) on the fake website, the scammers steal it.
* In some cases, the text message may contain a malicious attachment. Opening such attachments can install malware on your device.
Why is smishing dangerous?
* SMS messages are often seen as more trustworthy than emails, increasing the chance of victims clicking on links or opening attachments.
* People tend to read text messages immediately, leaving less time to question their legitimacy.
* Smishing scams are becoming more sophisticated, making it harder to distinguish between real and fake messages.
How to protect yourself from smishing:
* Never click on links or open attachments in text messages from unknown senders.
* Be wary of messages creating urgency or pressure.
* Verify the sender’s contact information directly if you receive a message from a seemingly legitimate source.
* Avoid entering personal information on unfamiliar websites.
* Use a security app that identifies and blocks smishing attempts.
Here’s how it works:
* Scammers send text messages disguised as coming from legitimate sources like banks, credit card companies, or even government agencies.
* These messages often contain a link that leads to a fake website appearing identical to the real one of the supposed sender.
* When victims enter their personal information (e.g., passwords, credit card details) on the fake website, the scammers steal it.
* In some cases, the text message may contain a malicious attachment. Opening such attachments can install malware on your device.
Why is smishing dangerous?
* SMS messages are often seen as more trustworthy than emails, increasing the chance of victims clicking on links or opening attachments.
* People tend to read text messages immediately, leaving less time to question their legitimacy.
* Smishing scams are becoming more sophisticated, making it harder to distinguish between real and fake messages.
How to protect yourself from smishing:
* Never click on links or open attachments in text messages from unknown senders.
* Be wary of messages creating urgency or pressure.
* Verify the sender’s contact information directly if you receive a message from a seemingly legitimate source.
* Avoid entering personal information on unfamiliar websites.
* Use a security app that identifies and blocks smishing attempts.
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