What is SMiSHing?

How can I protect myself?

Your cell phone is one of the most used — and — trusted devices. Help keep your device and personal information safe with these cybersecurity tips:

1. The first rule when dealing with smishing texts is to never respond. 

2. Contact banks or retailers directly as cybercriminals often try to impersonate legitimate businesses in smishing texts to gain access to credit card or other important personal information.

3. Avoid clicking on suspicious links and files. These may direct you to an infected site with spyware to record what you type or install malware onto your device.

4. Inspect new phone numbers. Take notice of four-digit numbers or any others that stray from the typical 10-digit format.

5. To keep yourself safe, never give out personal details, such as passwords, credit card numbers, addresses, and emails via text.

6. Use two-factor authentication as another means of protection. Biometric technology uses fingerprint technology and facial recognition to verify your identity.

7. Forward suspected smishing attacks to SPAM (7726) and/or reach out to the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.