SMS Phishing Countermeasures

This chapter explains certain guidelines and tools related to mobile security. In order to protect ourselves from SMS phishing, some rules have to be kept in mind.

• Financial companies never ask for personal or financial information, like usernames, passwords, PINs, or credit or debit card numbers via text message.

• Smishing scams attempt to create a false sense of urgency by requesting an immediate response required. Keep calm and analyze the SMS.

• Don’t open links in unsolicited text messages.

• Don’t call a telephone number listed in an unsolicited text message. You should contact any bank, government, agency, or company identified in the text message using the information listed in your records or in official webpages.

• Don’t respond to smishing messages, even to ask the sender to stop contacting you.

• Use caution when providing your cell phone number or other information in response to pop-up advertisements and “free trial” offers.

• Verify the identity of the sender and take time to ask yourself why the sender is asking for your information.

• Be cautious of text messages from unknown senders, as well as unusual text messages from senders you do know, and keep your security software and applications up to date.