The Federal Communications Commission is warning of a substantial rise in smishing and scam text messages targeting consumers, with 2022 on pace to nearly triple what was reported to the commission in 2019.
According to the FCC, which tracks complaints about scam calls and texts, there have been about 8,500 such complaints through June 30, 2022, which is on pace to increase for the fourth straight year.
The commission says complaints about unwanted text messages have risen steadily, from about 5,700 in 2019, 14,000 in 2020 to 15,300 in 2021. If the second half of 2022 is as busy as the first half, complaints would nearly triple what was reported in 2019.
The FCC says smishing texts have included “false-but-believable claims” that use fear and anxiety to get the user to interact. Messages include false information about unpaid bills, package delivery issues, back account problems or law enforcement actions against the user.
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While some are financially motivated, others are trying to collect personal information or confirm that a number is active for use in future scams.
Users are urged to not respond or click on any links in the message. Instead, users should independently look up contact information and reach out directly to the alleged sender to verify the message.
To identify a smishing attack, the FCC says users should look out for unknown numbers, misleading information, misspellings, longer phone numbers, sales pitches and incomplete information.
In addition to not interacting with suspicious text messages, the FCC advises users to delete all texts, update their mobile device and security apps, install anti-malware software and review text blocking tools.
The FCC is now considering a rule that would require mobile phone companies to block suspected illegal robotexts and look at how caller ID technology can be applied to text messaging, in addition to other measures being taken in partnership with state attorney general.
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