The phishing technique that involves sending text messages to a potential victim’s smartphone is called smishing (short for “SMS phishing”).

Quick Scoop

  • Smishing = SMS phishing. It is a type of phishing attack delivered specifically via text messages to mobile phones.
  • Attackers send messages that pretend to be from banks, delivery companies, government agencies, or popular brands , trying to trick you into clicking a link or sharing sensitive data.
  • These texts often use urgent or alarming language (“your account is locked”, “confirm now”) to push you to react quickly without thinking.

How Smishing Works

  • You receive a text that looks legitimate, often mentioning things like suspicious account activity, package delivery issues, or prize notifications.
  • The message usually:
    • Contains a link to a fake website designed to steal passwords, card numbers, or other personal data, or
    • Includes a phone number that connects you to a scammer posing as support.
  • Clicking the link can also install malware on your phone , giving attackers access to your information.

Quick Safety Tips Against Smishing

  • Do not click links in unexpected or suspicious texts, even if they mention a real company.
  • Do not reply to unknown or odd messages, especially ones asking you to “STOP” or confirm your number, as that confirms your number is active.
  • If a text claims to be from your bank, open the official app or type the bank’s website manually instead of using the link in the text.
  • Use your phone’s spam and scam filters and keep your device updated to reduce risk.

Bottom line: when you see a suspicious text asking you to click a link or share personal info, treat it as potential smishing and delete or report it.

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Learn which type of phishing technique involves sending text messages to a potential victim’s smartphone, what smishing is, how it works, and how to protect yourself from these SMS phishing attacks.

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