BLUF

Smishing uses misleading text/sms messages that appear to come from a trusted source—the aim is to get you to share information that will enable the sender to get at your money.

Summary

Smishing is a form of phishing that uses phone messages rather than emails. Smishing can involve messages that pretend to come from authorities that deal with:

  • Late payments.
  • Missed deliveries.
  • Bank notifications.
  • Fines.
  • Urgent notices.
  • COVID19 vaccinations.

The smisher's message will try to divert you to a fake website, where you are likely to be asked to divulge personal bank details. Smishers send out thousands of messages and do not care that most people will delete the message. The few who respond make it worthwhile. COVID19 has led to an increase in purchases made online, which has provided lots of opportunities for smishers to send out ‘delivery fee’ notifications. To try to reduce the likelihood of you being scammed, note the following:

  • If it sounds too good to be true, it usually is.
  • Report bogus messages.
  • Never click on links or divulge personal information.
  • Treat text messages with suspicion until proven otherwise.
Learn more about smishing.

References