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What is Smishing and How Does it Work?

Published: February 28, 2023

What is Smishing and How Does it Work?

What is Smishing?

Smishing is the combination of “SMS text messages” and “phishing” which means it is a type of phishing attack that is carried out through text messages you receive on your device.

Cybercriminals will often create a sense of urgency to get you to act quickly. In some cases, the message may also include a link that directs victims to a fake website where they are prompted to enter personal information or download malware.

SMS phishers play with your emotions (fear or greed) by creating a sense of urgency using specific messages that you cannot simply ignore. For example, they will send you a message claiming suspicious activity has been detected on an account or a suspicious log-in has occurred.

Cybercriminals Smish By:

  • Claiming suspicious activity has been detected on an account or a suspicious log-in has occurred.
  • Claiming there is a problem with your account or payment information.
  • Asking you to click on a link to make a payment.
  • Posing as government agencies offering fake relief, tax credits, or other benefits.
  • Providing an urgent pretext for why you must send personal information.

Prevent Smishing Attacks:

  • Do not respond. Even prompts to reply like texting “STOP” to unsubscribe can be a trick to identify active phone numbers.
  • Don’t click any links from unknown sources, even if it appears to be important.
  • Call your bank or merchant directly if doubtful. Legitimate institutions don’t request account updates or login info by text.
  • Block the numbers that seem to be spam to you that will prevent you from getting messages in the future.

Read: How to Block Spam Text Messages >>

Remember, USSFCU will never call, or text you to ask for your:

  • One-time verification code
  • PIN number
  • Username or password
  • Personally identifiable information (account number, social security number, birth date, etc.)

If you receive a message you feel might be fraudulent, do not provide any information, hang up, and independently call 800.374.2758 to speak to a team member at our Member Services Contact Center or log in to your account at my.ussfcu.org to verify transactions.

Information intended for educational purposes only. 

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