What Is Smishing?

Smishing, or phishing via text, is a method used by fraudsters to trick victims into sharing personal information. See how text-based fraud typically occurs and get tips to protect yourself.

Ever received a strange text that didn’t feel quite right? Maybe it claimed you won a prize or that something was wrong with your bank account. If so, you might’ve been targeted by a sneaky scam called smishing – short for SMS phishing.

Smishing is when scammers send fake text messages pretending to be from trusted sources, like financial institutions or government agencies. Their goal? To trick you into clicking a link or calling a number so they can steal your personal or financial information.

Clicking the link usually leads to a fake website designed to look real in order to steal your information. Calling the number might connect you to a scammer pretending to be a helpful customer service representative.

Text scams can be harder to detect than email phishing because texts feel more personal – and that’s exactly why they work so well. Many people fall for smishing before realizing it’s a scam.

So, how can you protect yourself? Let’s break down what smishing looks like and what to do if you ever receive a suspicious message.

What Is An Example Of Smishing?

Imagine getting this text from an unknown number:

“Your bank account has been locked due to suspicious activity. Click here to verify your transactions.”

That’s smishing. It creates panic, so you’ll act fast without thinking. If you click the link, you’ll land on a fake website that looks like your financial institution’s official page.

Once you enter your login details, scammers steal this information to access your account, transfer money, or lock you out.

Not all smishing texts involve financial institutions. Some claim you’ve won a prize and need to “claim” it. Others pretend to be delivery services, asking you to update your address.

Some even pretend to be government agencies, threatening fines or legal action if you don’t respond. No matter the message, the goal is the same: tricking you into disclosing your personal or financial information.

If you receive an unexpected text urging you to click a link or provide personal details, stop and think carefully. Always verify messages through official sources before taking action.

What To Do If You Receive A Smishing Text

If you suspect a smishing attack, take the following actions:

• If you get a suspicious text, don’t reply, click links, or provide personal information.
• Block the number and report it to your mobile carrier by forwarding it to 7726 (SPAM).
• Monitor your accounts for any unusual activity – especially your bank, social media, or crypto accounts – and always log in through the official website or mobile app.
• If you shared personal details, contact your bank or the relevant institution immediately to secure your account.

Stay alert for follow-up scams, update your phone’s security settings, and enable two-factor authentication for extra protection.

What Are Some Clues That A Text Message Is Smishing?

Smishing messages often have red flags that can help you spot them. Here are some common warning signs:

• Unknown numbers: Be cautious if you receive a message from an unfamiliar number. Scammers often send bulk messages from unrecognized sources.
• Urgency or threats: Smishing messages often include phrases like “Act now” or “Your account will be locked unless you respond.” Scammers try to make you panic and act fast without thinking.
• Suspicious links: Smishing texts often include odd-looking links with misspelled words or extra characters. Always double-check the link’s destination before clicking.
• Requests for personal information: Legitimate companies, including financial institutions, will never ask for sensitive details like passwords, account numbers, or Social Security numbers. If a message requests sensitive info, it’s a scam.
• Bad grammer or typos: Many scam messages contain typos or awkward phrasing. Scammers often rush, while real companies take the time to proofread their messages.

If you receive a suspicious message, don’t click anything. Instead, visit the company’s official website or call them directly using a trusted number. Scammers rely on urgency – always verify through official channels before responding.

What’s The Difference Between Smishing & Phishing?

Phishing happens through email. Scammers send fake emails pretending to be from well-known companies – like your bank, steaming service, a job recruiter, or even a charity. These emails often contain links to lookalike websites designed to steal your login credentials or payment info. Some also include attachments that secretly install malware on your device.

Smishing is phishing through text messages (SMS). Instead of email, scammers send a text that creates urgency. It might say something like, “We noticed a suspicious transaction on your account. Please verify immediately.” or “You have unpaid tolls. Pay now to avoid fines or legal action.” Just like with an email phishing scam, it’ll include a link that leads to a fake website or a phone number that connects you to a scammer – with the goal of stealing your information or installing malware on your phone.

Both scams rely on fear and urgency to get you to act fast. The main difference is that phishing occurs through email, while smishing happens through text messages.

To stay safe, never click links in unexpected messages. If a bank or company contacts you, visit their official website or call them using a trusted number.

Additionally, update yourself on new scams. For example, Gen Z fraud, which targets younger people for digital scams, is rising. Being aware of such tactics is vital for your long-term safety.

How To Stop Smishing Text Messages

Smishing scams are on the rise, but there are simple steps you can take to protect yourself.

• Don’t click on links in random texts: Even if a text seems legitimate, always resist the urge to click any links. Instead, visit the company’s official website to check for important notifications. If a bank or delivery service needs to reach you, they’ll use secure, verified methods beyond text messages.
• Verify before you act: Got a suspicious message claiming to be from your “bank”? Don’t reply or call the number in the SMS. Instead, use the contact number on your bank card or official website. Scammers rely on you acting without verifying; this simple step can save you from falling into their trap.
• Block suspicious numbers: If you receive a scam text, block the sender immediately. Most phones allow you to do this by tapping the number and selecting “Block.” This helps stop repeat scams from the same source.
• Use security apps: Consider using mobile apps or services that detect and block potential smishing attempts before they even reach you.
• Use spam filters: Many smartphones have built-in spam filters to detect and block scam texts. Check your phone settings and enable these features. Some mobile carriers also offer free spam protection services.
• Report suspicious messages: Fight against smishing by forwarding suspicious text messages to the relevant authorities. For example, you can inform your phone carrier, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), or your financial institution for appropriate action.

Smishing scams won’t stop anytime soon, but you can protect yourself by staying alert. If a message seems the least bit suspicious, don’t engage. Delete it, block the number, and report it. All these contribute to protecting yourself against digital fraud.

How To Avoid Falling For Fraudulent Financial Institution Texts

Scammers often impersonate banks or credit unions to steal your information. They’ll send alarming text messages claiming an issue with your account, like “Did you authorize a $1,250 transfer? If not, click here to cancel now.” These messages create panic, so you’ll act quickly without thinking.

To stay safe, never reply to suspicious financial institution messages. Banks and credit unions don’t ask for personal details like passwords or PINs through SMS. If you get an urgent message, don’t click any links or call the number in the text.

Instead, contact your financial institution directly using the official number on their website or the back of your card. You can also log in to your bank or credit union’s official website or mobile app to check for accurate alerts.

Many credit unions and banks have fraud prevention pages listing common scams. Checking your financial institution’s website can help you stay updated on new threats. Additionally, enable two-factor authentication (2FA), which makes it harder for scammers to access your account.

If a text feels suspicious, trust your instincts and verify before acting. Taking a few extra seconds to check can save you from fraud.

All financial institutions take their member’s security seriously. An excellent example is how A+ Federal Credit Union (A+FCU) goes to great lengths to protect its clients from smishing attacks. For instance, A+FCU only communicates to its members through secure channels, such as official websites, mobile apps, and customer service lines.

Additionally, the bank issues fraud alerts and provides scam updates. A+FCU also ensures all its communication is clear, secure, and timely, ensuring members’ safety.

In addition to its commitment to your safety, A+FCU offers excellent member benefits, making this bank ideal if you value safety and world-class service.

Stay One Step Ahead Of Smishing Scams

Smishing is a growing threat, but you can stay safe by being cautious. Always watch for warning signs like urgent messages, strange links, or requests for personal details. Never click on unknown links or respond to suspicious texts. If you receive one, report it immediately. Scammers constantly change their tactics, so staying alert is crucial.