Connecticut BBB Warns of Sneaky “Smishing” Scams in Smart Phone and Text Messages

May 19, 2011 - PRLog -- What to Do if You are Targeted


A new scam is targeting victims via their mobile phones and through text messages.  Though it is not clear how con artists are obtaining the telephone numbers and text addresses, they pose as bank, lottery and sweepstakes officials, asking recipients to contact them immediately about a pressing issue that needs to be discussed.

“Smishing,” phishing for information through Short Message Service (SMS), is yet another indicator that smart phones and other mobile devices increasingly are becoming a tool of choice for perpetrators of fraud and the spread of malware and viruses.  Some victims report receiving text messages telling them their bank accounts were frozen, and listing a toll-free number to call to provide personal information to clear things up.

The President of Connecticut Better Business Bureau, Paulette Scarpetti, says the scammers’ goals are simple.

“This is a twist common to many high tech scams, with the goal of tricking people into revealing personal information or download viruses and other malicious software onto people’s mobile devices.”

Connecticut Better Business Bureau offers tips to consumers who are on the receiving end of a mobile device smishing attempt:

Never reply to the text message – Schemers are preying on victims who text back and ultimately verify that the text has in fact, been sent to an active device.  If the message contains a link, never click it.  Many con artists use this as a way to spread a viral attack.

Report the text immediately – If you believe you have fallen victim to a smishing lottery sweepstakes scam, contact your BBB online, or by telephone at 203-269-2700 to confirm the legitimacy of the text message and file a complaint against the business responsible for sending it.

Contact your cell phone provider – Your wireless provider should be able to block the number, as well as any premium text messages.

Do your research – If you believe you have fallen victim to a smishing lottery sweepstakes scam, contact your BBB directly to 203-269-2700 to confirm the legitimacy of the text message and to file a complaint against the business responsible for sending it.

Contact the Federal Trade Commission – The FTC works to prevent fraudulent business practices in the marketplace.  You may file a complaint at http://www.ftc.gov, or by telephone, at 1-877-HELP (4357).

Text messages such as “Win cash now,” or “Short on cash?” or “Reply here” are red flags that a lottery sweepstakes smishing scam is in the midst.  Many of these messages come with embedded links that ultimately can spread viruses to your mobile device if clicked.

BBB offers more tips to stay safe online at http://www.ct.bbb.org/Consumer-Resources/.

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Founded in 1928, Connecticut BBB is an unbiased non-profit organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. For more advice on finding companies and businesses, start your search with trust at www.bbb.org.