Smishing and phishing are deceptive cyber threats designed to trick individuals into revealing personal and financial information. While phishing typically occurs through emails, smishing takes place via SMS text messages. One of the most prevalent smishing scams involves fraudulent road toll collection texts, which impersonate official agencies to steal sensitive data.

To protect against these threats across all devices—phones, tablets, laptops, and desktops—users should avoid clicking suspicious links, verify URLs, enable two-factor authentication, and report scams to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3). The FBI has issued warnings about the growing number of smishing scams and urges the public to remain vigilant, delete suspicious messages, and take immediate action if personal information has been compromised.

By staying informed and practicing cybersecurity best practices, individuals can safeguard themselves from falling victim to phishing and smishing scams.

Understanding Smishing and Phishing: Similarities and Differences

Smishing and phishing are both cyber threats that manipulate users into sharing sensitive information. The primary difference lies in the medium used for the attack. Phishing typically occurs through email, where scammers pose as legitimate institutions to steal login credentials, personal data, or financial details. Smishing, on the other hand, is a form of phishing that takes place through SMS (short message service), commonly known as text messaging.

Despite their differences, smishing and phishing share several similarities. Both tactics rely on social engineering, a psychological manipulation technique that exploits urgency and fear to prompt victims into taking immediate action. Scammers craft their messages to appear as though they come from trusted sources, such as banks, government agencies, or service providers. The ultimate goal is to trick victims into clicking malicious links, downloading malware, or providing personal and financial details.

One of the latest widespread smishing campaigns involves fake road toll collection messages, where scammers send fraudulent texts claiming the recipient owes unpaid toll fees. If the victim clicks the provided link, they are directed to a fake payment page that steals their information.

Watch this video for an in-depth explanation of smishing.

Protecting Yourself from Smishing and Phishing Across All Devices

Cybercriminals continuously evolve their tactics, making it crucial to stay informed and proactive in protecting personal data across all devices, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, and desktops. Here are key methods for detecting and preventing phishing and smishing attacks:

Detection Methods:

  1. Scrutinize URLs – Scammers often use domain names that appear legitimate but contain extra characters or symbols. Examples of fraudulent domains include:
    • dhl.com-new[.]xin
    • e-zpassny.com-ticketd[.]xin
    • usps.com-tracking-helpsomg[.]xin
  2. Look for Grammar and Spelling Errors – Official organizations maintain professional communication standards. Poorly written messages are a red flag.
  3. Beware of Urgent Requests – Messages demanding immediate payment or action often indicate a scam.

Prevention Methods:

  1. Never Click Suspicious Links – Hover over hyperlinks in emails and texts before clicking. If unsure, visit the official website directly.
  2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) – This extra security layer protects accounts even if credentials are compromised.
  3. Use Spam Filters and Security Software – Updated security applications can detect and block fraudulent messages.
  4. Report Suspicious Messages – Forward smishing texts to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) or your mobile carrier.
  5. Delete Suspicious Messages Immediately – Do not engage with potential scammers. Simply delete the message to avoid accidental clicks.

Learn more about phishing prevention in this informative video.

FBI’s Involvement in Smishing and Phishing Investigations

The FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) plays a vital role in tracking and preventing smishing and phishing schemes. Over the past year, IC3 has observed a significant increase in smishing attacks, particularly those impersonating toll collection agencies.

In response, the FBI has issued public warnings advising individuals to be extremely cautious when receiving texts about unpaid road tolls. The agency has urged the public to report fraudulent messages by documenting the phone number and the URL included in the text.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) also warns against responding to these texts, emphasizing that engaging with scammers can lead to identity theft and financial fraud. The FBI strongly advises that if an individual has accidentally provided sensitive information, they should immediately:

  • Contact their bank to secure financial accounts.
  • Change passwords for online banking and other sensitive accounts.
  • Monitor credit reports for unauthorized activity.

Report phishing and smishing scams directly to the FBI’s IC3 here.

Key Takeaway: Stay Cautious Across All Devices

Whether using a phone, tablet, laptop, or desktop, vigilance is crucial in preventing cyber threats like smishing and phishing. Be wary of unsolicited messages demanding action, always verify URLs, and never share sensitive information via text or email. Remember, official agencies will never pressure you into immediate payments through digital messages.

By staying informed and following best security practices, you can protect yourself from falling victim to scams that target individuals through deceptive messages.