If you feel like your phone’s inbox is blowing up with spam messages these days, you aren’t alone! From fake delayed package messages to false warnings about account issues, it can seem like the texts are never-ending. Although you may find it better to just ignore the spam, officials are now saying Americans need to get the phishing messages off their devices as soon as possible. Find out more below about why FBI officials are warning people to delete spam texts.
Why the FBI is urging you to delete scam text messages
Phishing text messages certainly aren’t new, but lately there seems to be a massive uptick in the amount being sent. The most recent scam involves bad actors threatening Americans with consequences regarding unpaid tolls for traffic offenses.
Scammers are attempting to trap smartphone users by posing as the Department of Motor Vehicles for the recipient’s state. The threats usually tell people that if they don’t pay the fines or tolls immediately, they could lose their driving privileges or even end up in jail.
The increase in these ‘smishing’ texts has prompted officials around the country to speak out to prevent anyone from falling victim.
Here’s what to do if you get a suspicious text
Since late last year, the FBI and local police departments have been telling people to get rid of the phishing texts from their phones. While the initial advisory was for those with iPhones, both iPhone and Android users are being told to exercise caution this time.
Many unknown senders can take advantage of some iPhone loopholes, but these recent attacks are being sent to all smartphone users indiscriminately. Now everyone who receives the malicious texts is being strongly advised to take action.
The FBI is warning citizens to not only avoid interacting with the messages and senders, but to promptly delete the texts too.
Why are officials sharing a warning about phishing text messages?
Scammers are dangerous at any time, but the group behind the recent wave of phishing texts is what has caught the attention of investigators. In this case, the malicious texts are being sent by organized Chinese criminal groups, according to Forbes. The low-cost operation involves collecting and targeting countless phone numbers from multiple countries in the hopes that some will take the bait.
Though there is no threat if you leave these texts ignored or unopened on your phone, deleting it can accomplish two things. First, when you delete a text message, you have the option to report it. Reporting spam and phishing texts improves filtering systems for you and other users and may even make it easier for officials to track down the scammers.
Another reason to trash the text: It will keep you from accidentally engaging with it. These phishing texts can “put malware on your phone, which then can go in and steal information from your device, or collect your payment information,” FBI Tennessee’s Supervisory Special Agent David Palmer told WREG News.
Eliminating the message from your inbox will ensure your information—and device—stay safe.
5 red flags that a text is a scam
Not sure if the message you received is a form of phishing? Here are some common red flags:
- Unknown or hidden numbers (Note: It is possible for some scammers to “spoof a local number.)
- Requests for personal information
- False claims about problems with payment information
- Links with instructions on next steps to take
- A sense of urgency meant to evoke fear and panic
When in doubt about the legitimacy of a text message from a company or government agency, head to the official website to access your account or contact customer service.
