SMS-based fraud is becoming increasingly common so being well-equipped to identify and respond to these fraudulent attempts is vital. Here are some essential tips to help you stay safe.
Understanding SMS Fraud
SMS fraud, also known as smishing, involves scammers sending fraudulent text messages to trick you into revealing personal information, clicking on malicious links, or making payments. These messages often appear to be from legitimate sources, such as banks, government agencies, or well-known companies.
How to Identify SMS Fraud
To begin with, always treat unsolicited messages with caution, especially those messages claiming urgent action is required. Avoid clicking on links in messages from unknown senders. Remember that legitimate organisations will never ask for sensitive information like passwords or PINs via SMS so any request for such information should immediately raise a red flag. Other things to watch out for include spelling or grammatical errors and too good to be true offers. These are often clear signs that an attempted fraud is underway.
Steps to Respond to SMS Fraud
Always avoid replying to suspicious messages, even if they ask you to “opt-out” of future messages. Instead, use your phone’s settings to block the number that sent it and report the suspicious message to your mobile carrier. You should then delete the message from your phone to prevent accidental interaction. Keep an eye on your accounts to make sure there haven’t been any unauthorised transactions. If you see anything suspicious inform your bank immediately.
Additional Tips for Staying Safe
There are several additional steps you can take to stay safe online. Firstly, enable two-Factor Authentication (2FA) to add an extra layer of security to your accounts, the benefits of which were outlined in our previous article here. Also, ensure that your phone’s operating system and apps are up to date to protect against vulnerabilities. Finally, stay informed about the latest fraud tactics and share this knowledge with friends and family.
At MeDirect, your security is our top priority. By following these tips, you can help protect yourself from SMS fraud and keep your personal information safe.
