What Is Smishing?
Smishing, also known as SMS phishing, is a type of cyber attack where the attacker uses text messages to trick the victim into providing sensitive information or downloading malware onto their mobile device. Smishing is becoming more common as people rely more on mobile devices for online banking, shopping, and other activities involving sensitive information.
What Is A Smishing Attack?
A smishing attack is a type of social engineering attack where the attacker uses text messages to deceive the victim into providing sensitive information or downloading malware onto their mobile device. Smishing attacks usually involve a sense of urgency, such as a message that claims the victim’s bank account has been compromised, and they need to log in to their account immediately to prevent further damage.
How Do Smishing Attacks Work?
Smishing attacks work by exploiting the victim’s trust in the mobile device and the SMS messaging system. The attacker sends a text message that appears to be from a legitimate source, such as a bank, and convinces the victim to click on a link or provide sensitive information. Once the victim clicks on the link or provides the information, the attacker can access the victim’s account or install malware on their device.
Different Types Of Smishing Attacks
There are several types of smishing attacks that attackers use to target victims. It’s important to be aware of these different types of smishing attacks so that you can recognize them and protect yourself from becoming a victim.
COVID-19 Smishing
Scammers exploit people’s fears and anxieties related to COVID-19 by sending text messages that claim to provide important information or updates about the pandemic.
Financial Services Smishing
Attackers send text messages that appear to be from banks or other financial institutions, claiming that the victim’s account has been compromised or that there is suspicious activity on their account.
Gift Smishing
Scammers send text messages that claim the victim has won a gift card or prize and asks for personal information to claim the prize.
Invoice or Order Confirmation Smishing
Attackers send text messages that appear to be from online retailers or shipping companies, claiming that the victim needs to confirm an order or payment by clicking on a link or providing personal information.
Customer Support Smishing
Attackers send text messages that appear to be from a company’s customer support team, asking for personal information or claiming that there is an issue with the victim’s account.
Smishing Attack Examples
Some recent examples of smishing attacks include a message that claims to be from a delivery service asking the victim to click on a link to confirm their package, a message that claims to be from a bank asking the victim to log in to their account to prevent fraudulent activity, and a message that claims to be from a social media platform asking the victim to verify their account by providing personal information.
Fake Shipping Notifications
The attacker sends a text message to the victim claiming to be a shipping company, stating that a package is on the way and providing a link to track it. The link, however, leads to a phishing website that prompts the victim to enter personal information or login credentials.
Phishing For Login Credentials
The attacker sends a text message to the victim claiming to be a social media platform or financial institution, requesting that the victim reset their password or verify their account by clicking on a link and entering their login credentials. The link leads to a fake website that steals the victim’s login credentials.
Malware Distribution
The attacker sends a text message with a link to a seemingly harmless app or software update, which, when downloaded, installs malware on the victim’s device. This malware can allow the attacker to remotely access the victim’s machine, steal personal information or send unauthorized messages.
Prize Scams
The attacker sends a text message to the victim claiming they have won a prize, such as a gift card or vacation package. The victim is then instructed to provide personal information, such as a credit card number, to claim the prize.
Urgent Security Alert
The attacker sends a text message to the victim claiming to be from their bank or financial institution, warning them of a security breach and prompting them to click a link to reset their account security. The link leads to a phishing website that steals the victim’s login credentials or installs malware on their device.
Tax Refund Scam
The attacker sends a text message to the victim claiming to be from the IRS, informing them they are eligible for a tax refund and providing a link to claim it. The link leads to a fake website that prompts the victim to enter personal information or login credentials.
Charity Scam
The attacker sends a text message to the victim claiming to represent a charity or nonprofit organization, requesting a donation to support a cause. The victim is then prompted to provide personal information or payment details, which are used for fraud.
Employment Scam
The attacker sends a text message to the victim claiming a job opportunity and requesting that the victim clicks on a link to apply. Instead, the link leads to a phishing website that prompts the victim to enter personal information or login credentials.
Settings To Stop Text Phishing Scam On Your Mobile
There are several settings you can enable on your mobile device to help prevent smishing attacks.
- Enable spam filters: Many mobile carriers offer filters that block text messages from known spam numbers.
- Block unknown senders: You can set your device to block text messages from unknown senders.
- Turn off message previews: By turning off message previews, you can prevent attackers from using your lock screen to display fake messages that look like legitimate notifications.
How To Protect Yourself From Smishing
Do not respond
If you receive a text message that looks suspicious, do not respond or click on any links.
Beware of urgent messages
Attackers often use urgent messages to create a sense of panic and urgency. Be cautious of any message that claims there is an urgent issue that needs to be addressed.
Call your bank or merchant directly before acting on any banking request
If you receive a text message that appears to be from your bank or another financial institution, call them directly to confirm the request before providing any information.
Avoid using any links or contact info in the message
If you do need to access your account or confirm an order, do not use the links provided in the message. Instead, use the official website or app and confirm the information there.
Confirm phone numbers
If you receive a message that appears to be from a company or organization, confirm the phone number on their official website or app before calling them back.
Avoid keeping credit card information stored on your phone
While it may be convenient to store credit card information on your phone for easy payments, it can also make it easier for attackers to access your sensitive information.
Use multi-factor authentication (MFA)
MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring a code or other authentication method in addition to your password. This can help prevent attackers from accessing your accounts even if they have your password.
Never provide a password or account recovery code via text
Legitimate companies will never ask for your password or account recovery code via text message. If you receive a message asking for this information, it is likely a smishing attack.
Download an anti-malware app
Anti-malware apps can help detect and prevent malware from being installed on your device.
Report the attack
If you receive a smishing attack, report it to your mobile carrier, the company or organization being impersonated, and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
Brandefense’s Phishing Service
If you are a business owner or manager, consider using a phishing service like Brandefense to help protect your company from smishing attacks. These services can provide identify potential vulnerabilities and help prevent attacks before they happen.
In conclusion, smishing attacks can be dangerous and compromise sensitive information. However, being vigilant and taking steps to protect yourself can reduce your risk of falling victim to a smishing attack. Be cautious of any text messages that ask for personal information or appear suspicious, and always verify the source before providing any sensitive information. Stay safe!
