Ways to avoid SMiShing Attacks
 
Most of us are aware of how to spot a phishing email, however, we are still naïve when it comes to text messages that we receive directly to our phones. The criminals are also conniving enough to make their SMiSh messages appear to be from a trusted source like a friend, or your bank. Web links embedded in text messages are often shortened URLs so you don’t know where they will really lead you. Below are some tips on avoiding being the victim of a SMiShing attack:
 

• Avoid tapping links within text messages. Be extra cautious if the message appears to come from someone you know, because the SMS ID can be faked.
• DON’T REPLY to text messages that request private or financial information from you.
• If a text message is urging you to act or respond quickly, stop and think about it. Remember that criminals use this as a tactic to get you to do what they want.
• Never reply to a suspicious text message without verifying the source. If your credit card has really been compromised, you should call the number on the back of your card to discuss this matter with your bank.
• Never call a phone number contained in a message from an unknown sender.
• If you are using an Android device, you should consider adding security software to your mobile. Smartphones are essentially small computers loaded with gigabytes of sensitive information that criminals want. You should protect your mobile phone the same way you protect your PC to avoid malware and phishing attacks. Symantec and McAfee are examples of security software providers.
• In some cases check mobile links by taping and holding the link on your smartphone, so that you can see where it is pointing to.

For more information on SMiShing, click here.