Staying Safe from Smishing: Protecting Yourself Against Text Message Scams

In the digital age, where technology connects us in countless ways, staying vigilant against online threats like smishing is crucial. Smishing, a form of phishing via text message, can lead to financial fraud, identity theft, and malware attacks if not recognized and addressed promptly. Here's everything you need to know about smishing and how to protect yourself:

Understanding Smishing:

• Smishing is a form of phishing that utilizes text messages to trick users into divulging personal or financial information.
• Attackers often send fraudulent messages containing links to malicious websites or prompts to download harmful apps.

Modus Operandi of Smishing:

• Users receive enticing messages with offers or rewards, leading them to click on suspicious links or provide personal information.
• Smishing techniques include triggering the download of malicious apps, directing users to information-capturing forms, and issuing urgent security alerts to manipulate emotions.

Identifying and Responding to Smishing Messages:

• Be cautious of messages from unidentified numbers, especially those claiming to be from banks or financial institutions.
• Watch out for warning signs such as urgent security alerts, requests to transfer money immediately, or messages marked with deadlines.
• Never click on links in suspicious messages and verify the authenticity of sender information before responding or providing any personal details.

Security Tips to Avoid Smishing:

• Avoid clicking on links in SMS or WhatsApp messages; instead, manually type the website address in your browser or copy-paste the link.
• Check links carefully for misspellings or irregularities before clicking, and only enter sensitive information over secure connections (look for "https" in the URL).
• Exercise caution when opening attachments or downloading files, even from known contacts.
• Use antivirus, antispyware, and firewall software, and keep them updated regularly.
• Enforce multi-factor authentication (MFA) for added security, and keep all software and firmware updated with the latest security patches.

Cybercrime Reporting:

• Victims of cybercrime can report incidents through the government portal www.cybercrime.gov.in or by calling the national cyber-crime helpline number 1930.
• This initiative by the Government of India aims to address cybercrimes, with a focus on crimes against women and children.