Spam text messages are not only annoying... they can also be dangerous! Cybercriminals use text messages to trick you into entering your personal information. This is known as smishing (“SMS phishing”).

There are several approaches used to try to compel a user to click on a link or submit private information. Some trick users into thinking they are being linked to tracking information for a delivery. Some send messages telling a user that their electric bill is unpaid and they must submit payment information to avoid disconnection. Some even try to embarrass a user into clicking a link with a message like, “OMG is this you in this video??” During the COVID-19 pandemic, cybercriminals even preyed on people by pretending to offer help.

Here are 6 tips on how to protect yourself against smishing and text spam:

1. Verify the sender & take a moment to think about why they are asking for your information.
2. Don’t click on any links provided in the text message and do not reply.
3. Block the number. Follow these links for instructions on Android or on iPhone.
4. Forward the message to 7226 to report it to your carrier.
5. Use security software to protect against malware.
6. Update your phone’s operating system to ensure it has the latest security patches.

Smishing is just one way your mobile device can be attacked. If you didn’t see our blog post last week regarding mobile security, catch up here: 12 Tips for Avoiding Mobile Security Threats.

AllSafe IT’s comprehensive cybersecurity services are designed to identify, assess, and manage cybersecurity risks. We have aligned with the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) framework for the design of our cybersecurity solutions.