Last updated May 2023
Communicating through texting and messaging apps has become a norm due to the increased usage of mobile devices. It has become more common to send someone a message rather than call them.
However, this alternative form of communication has provided a new platform to be targeted by hackers through smishing attacks.
But what is smashing, and how can you protect yourself from dodgy texts? Here is what you need to know.
What is smishing?
But there's more.
While email security features have made it more difficult for phishing emails to reach your mailbox, it is more difficult to distinguish between a genuine and a fake text message.
SMS tend to elicit greater response and urgency than emails. People also seem to trust texts more than emails because getting hold of one's mobile number rather than one's email address is more difficult.
How does it work? How do people get tricked?
These messages contain links to fake websites that resemble legitimate ones or prompt recipients to reply with personal information.
Once they click on the website, the recipient is prompted to either download a program that allows their phone to be controlled by a hacker or submit personal information like bank login and password.
Smishing uses elements of social engineering to get people to share personal information.
In a smishing attack, the attacker typically leverages trust or fear to obtain sensitive information. Often, these enticing text messages will have an urgent call to action, for example, "We suspect an unauthorized transaction on your account" or "Your payment details for your recent order were declined; review them now". They pose as a legitimate entity, such as a bank, government agency, or service provider.
The problem with SMS phishing is that the text messages can look very convincing. SMS' tend to elicit greater response and urgency than emails. Open rates for SMS are near 98%, whereas email can only offer available rates that hover around 20%. Put, text messages are more likely to be read than an email. People also seem to trust texts rather than emails because it is more difficult for strangers to get hold of mobile numbers than email addresses.
There are some basic things to remember to avoid being smished:
- Be cautious of unsolicited messages: Treat any unexpected or suspicious text messages with caution, especially those requesting personal information, financial details or urgent action.
- Verify the sender: If you receive a message from an organization claiming to be your bank, service provider, or another entity, verify its authenticity by contacting the legitimate business through their official website or phone number.
- Avoid clicking on links: Avoid clicking on links in text messages, especially from unknown senders or if the message seems suspicious. These links may lead to phishing websites or trigger malware downloads onto your device.
- Don't text back. Responding to text messages can sometimes allow malware to be installed that will silently collect personal information from your phone.
- Avoid clicking on links: Avoid clicking on links in text messages, especially from unknown senders or if the message seems suspicious. These links may lead to phishing websites or trigger malware downloads onto your device.
- Do not provide personal information: Legitimate organizations usually do not ask for personal data via text messages, such as passwords or social security numbers. Avoid providing such information in response to unsolicited messages.
- Use anti-virus and anti-spyware software to flag any suspicious messages or websites where possible.
- Use security software: Install reputable security software on your mobile device that can help detect and block smishing attempts.
- Once you have detected the SMS scam, blocking the phone number to prevent future messages is also a good idea.
By remaining vigilant and following these precautions, you can reduce the risk of falling victim to smishing attacks.
Interested to learn more? Carry on reading: