If the address bar in your browser bounces you from one website to another in quick succession, that’s a good sign you’re being hit with a scam. If you do happen to tap a link, you might be redirected (often multiple times) to a different website. While this was the first (and, as of this writing, only) exploit of its kind, it’s a reminder that you should never trust a random link. In August 2019, people who own iPhones were exposed to malware simply by visiting a URL in Safari due to a zero-day exploit. To be safe, avoid tapping links in unsolicited text messages. Some of these scams are designed to spread malware, and, sometimes, all that requires a tap (or click) on a link. However, even if it does, you have no way of knowing whether it’s safe or not. Most text message scams include a link, and, usually, the URL doesn’t match the company name. Number Two: Don’t Tap Links in Suspicious Messages While there is evidence of mobile carriers using spam filtering techniques similar to those of email providers, many smishing attempts slip through the net.Īlways remember the golden rule: If it seems too good to be true, it probably is. Sending text messages en masse from a web interface is cheap and easy to do.

This opportunity hasn’t gone unnoticed by scammers. Also, URL shorteners are common in text messages due to the 160-character limit. Text messages are short, which leaves little room for obvious spelling or grammar mistakes. He also has to hope a spam filter doesn’t catch the email.īecause SMS is such a basic form of communication, fraudulent messages are a lot harder to spot. The scammer has to be mindful of branding and tone and make sure the email is error-free. PKbugf5ZGhĬrafting a phishing email that doesn’t immediately raise suspicion requires some skill. Seems legit! What do you think ⁦ ?😂 man I can’t believe #Smishing makes a profit. Normally, the message invites you to verify your account details, make a payment, or claim a prize. The scammer sends a text message with a link to potential victims. “Smishing” (a portmanteau of SMS and phishing) works almost identically.

Bee invoicing mac unable to open