The FBI has issued an urgent warning about the rising threat of smishing—fraudulent text messages designed to steal personal and financial information. With over 10,000 fake websites in operation, scammers are targeting smartphone users across the U.S. The FBI has outlined six key protective measures and four crucial precautions to prevent falling victim to these cyber threats. Staying alert and taking preventive action is crucial to safeguarding your identity and finances.

The FBI’s Warning: The Rising Threat of Smishing

Smishing, a combination of “SMS” and “phishing,” is a deceptive scam where fraudsters send text messages pretending to be legitimate entities, such as government agencies or toll services, to steal personal and financial information.

The FBI has identified an alarming surge in smishing attacks, with cybercriminals registering over 10,000 fraudulent domains to sustain these scams. Many messages claim to be from city parking departments or road toll agencies, threatening fines for unpaid fees to lure recipients into clicking malicious links. If the victim interacts with the link, they may be prompted to enter sensitive information, which scammers then exploit for identity theft or financial fraud.

6 Essential Steps to Protect Yourself from Smishing

To counteract the growing smishing threat, cybersecurity experts and the FBI recommend taking the following protective measures:

  1. Verify Before Trusting – If you receive an unexpected text claiming to be from a trusted source, do not engage. Instead, contact the organization directly via their official website or phone number.
  2. Avoid Clicking Suspicious Links – Scammers use links to direct users to fraudulent websites. Always manually type the official website URL instead of clicking a link.
  3. Keep Your Devices Secure – Regularly update your operating system and apps to ensure you have the latest security patches. Consider using reputable antivirus software.
  4. Use a Password Manager – A trusted password manager ensures that your credentials are only entered on verified websites, helping prevent phishing attacks.
  5. Report Suspicious Activity – If you receive a suspected smishing text, report it to your mobile carrier, the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), or local authorities.
  6. Consider a Personal Data Removal Service – Reducing your online exposure by removing personal data from data broker websites can decrease your risk of being targeted.

FBI’s Four Key Precautions Against Smishing Attacks

The FBI has outlined specific precautions to minimize the risk of falling victim to smishing scams:

  1. Do Not Click or Respond – Even responding to a scam text can confirm your number is active, leading to more attacks.
  2. Verify Claims with Official Sources – If a message claims to be from a toll service or government agency, visit their official website or call their verified customer service line.
  3. Report the Scam – Forward suspicious messages to 7726 (SPAM) for review by mobile carriers, and file a complaint with the IC3 at www.ic3.gov.
  4. Delete Fraudulent Texts Immediately – Keeping scam messages on your phone increases the risk of accidental interaction, so it’s best to remove them right away.

Takeaway: Stay Vigilant and Protect Yourself

With cybercriminals constantly refining their tactics, smartphone users must take extraordinary precautions to safeguard their identities and finances. Practicing due diligence can prevent devastating financial losses and identity theft. If avoiding technology altogether isn’t an option, consider enlisting the help of trusted family members, trustworthy friends, or paying for professional cybersecurity assistance. Additionally, stay informed about the latest scams, use strong security measures, and report suspicious messages immediately.

As Benjamin Franklin wisely said, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” Protect yourself today to prevent becoming a victim of tomorrow’s cyber threats. In a world where digital deception is on the rise, taking proactive steps can make all the difference. Whether through vigilance, education, or seeking expert guidance, safeguarding your personal information is not just a recommendation—it’s a necessity.

Watch the video: Fox News Video on Smishing

Report smishing scams to the FBI: FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)