| Phishing texts are on the rise. | Spam text messages, also known as phishing texts, trick consumers into providing personal data to criminals who pose as a familiar business, organization, or family member.
Criminals use phishing text messages to attain usernames and passwords, social security numbers, credit card numbers and PINs to commit fraud or identity theft. Other attacks focus on downloading viruses or malware, which can give thieves access to your bank accounts.
Common phishing texts can include messages related to:
| • | Winning an unexpected prize | | • | Government agencies, such as the IRS, trying to contact you | | • | Popular businesses, such as Walmart or Amazon, sending you a refund | | • | Financial institutions attempting to verify your information | | • | Delivery companies, such as FedEx or UPS, asking for package preferences | | • | Verifying technology accounts, such as Apple IDs | | • | Free bitcoins or other cryptocurrencies | | • | Family members needing immediate financial help |
Here are some best practices to help you handle spam texts appropriately.
| • | Do not respond. If you suspect a text is from a scammer, do not reply. Replying confirms your phone number is active, which guarantees more texts. | | • | Block numbers on your phone. Scammers often send texts using different names and numbers, but blocking annoying or spammy texts can slow them down. | | • | Do not click links in a text. Clicking suspicious links in an unsolicited text message may infect your phone or mobile device with malware that copies your stored personal or financial information. |
Always use your best judgment and exercise caution before responding to requests for information. In the event you fall victim to a scam, contact us at 561-686-4006 immediately. |
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