We often refrain from sending messages alerting people to on-going, well-publicized cyberattacks. Rather than clog inboxes with information that every news source is broadcasting, we work behind the scenes to keep you safe. We do, however, encourage you to follow information security practices whenever using technology, including your phone.

Indeed, please be advised that there has been a marked increase in the number of phishing scams sent to mobile devices via text message, or SMS. This is being termed “smishing.” At the moment, there’s a mystery shopping scam making the rounds which begins with a text invitation asking you to send an email for more information, which then gets you roped into the scam.

When you get a text message from a number you don’t recognize, apply the same precautions you would with an email, and don’t click on any links or open any files whose source you don’t know or from whom you weren’t already expecting to receive a message.

More and more, text messages are being used for identity theft, bank account take-overs and social engineering attempts to cheat you out of personal or company confidential information. Since mobile devices are increasingly used to access and store secure data, this is likely to continue to grow as an avenue of attack.

Here’s a one-minute USA Today public service announcement on smishing.

Should you require further information or confront any problems, please do not hesitate to reach out to us by clicking below or calling 1-800-541-0450.