Most of us only look out for hackers and their threats when checking our email. But SMISHING is even becoming more of a potential danger to texting on Smartphones.

In an article by Luke Larson on November 9, 2018 from Digital Trends, cyber criminals acquire phone numbers from databases on the dark web and then they try to lure Smartphone users into sharing personal data.

Hackers accomplish this in a few different ways. One way is a text with a link that automatically downloads malware which can steal all sorts of various data such as your cellphone contact list, banking credentials, or even your tracking location. A second way is for hackers to pose as a legitimate and well-known institution as the IRS, social security office, credit card companies, etc.

In order to protect yourself follow this suggestions. First, never click on a link or reply to a text. Second, Google the content of a message when asked to “reply if you want to stop messages.” Third, if it looks like it comes from a reputable company but asks strange things get the legitimate number on the internet and call to verify the message. Fourth, install anti-malware on your phone. Finally, if you think malware has been downloaded, protect your data by changing passwords or use an encrypted password manager for the best security possible.

https://www.digitaltrends.com/smishing-threat-targets-phones-by-text-message/