Protect yourself, your family, and friends from phishing text scams
Our mobile devices are crucial for communication, banking, and shopping. Scammers now use text messages to deceive victims into sharing personal information or transferring money. This blog will explain how these scams operate, the tactics used, and how to stay protected.
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How Text Scams Work
Scammers often send texts that appear to be from banks, government agencies, or well-known companies, using urgent language to prompt quick action. These messages might mention problems with your bank account, delivery issues, or claim you have won a prize.
They aim to make you call or click a link to steal personal information, such as your Social Security number, bank details, and passwords, or to transfer money directly to them. Additionally, some scammers attempt to clone your cell phone by tricking you into providing access codes or installing malicious software, allowing them to intercept calls and messages and gain further control over your personal data.
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Common Tactics Used by Scammers
Impersonation: Scammers often impersonate trusted entities, using logos and official-sounding language to appear legitimate.
Urgency: They create a sense of urgency, making you feel like you must act immediately to avoid a problem or seize an opportunity.
Fear and Threats: Some messages may threaten legal action, account suspension, or dire consequences if you don't comply.
Too Good to Be True Offers: Promises of large sums of money, prizes, or other rewards are often used to lure victims.
How to Protect Yourself
Verify the Source: If you receive a suspicious text, do not click on any links or call any numbers provided. Instead, contact the company or institution directly using a verified phone number or website.
Do Not Share Personal Information: Legitimate companies will never ask for sensitive information like your Social Security number or bank details via text message.
Report Suspicious Messages: Forward scam texts to your wireless service provider by sending them to 7726 (SPAM). This helps providers block these numbers and protect other users.
Use Security Features: Enable two-factor authentication on your accounts and keep your phone's operating system and apps up to date to protect against malware.
What to Do If You Fall Victim
If you realize you've given personal information to a scammer, act quickly:
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Contact Your Bank: Inform your bank or financial institution immediately to secure your accounts.
Place Fraud Alerts: Contact the three credit bureaus to place fraud alerts on your credit reports. I've listed their contact information below.
Change Passwords: Update passwords for any accounts that may have been compromised.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Add an extra layer of security to your accounts by enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible
If you think your phone has been compromised:
Disconnect it from the Internet: Turn off Wi-Fi and mobile data to prevent further unauthorized access.
Contact Your Carrier: Inform your mobile service provider about the issue. They can help you secure your account and may provide additional security measures.
Report the Scam: File a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and local law enforcement.
By staying vigilant and informed, you can protect yourself from falling victim to these increasingly sophisticated scams. Remember, if something seems off or too good to be true, it probably is.
Stay safe and spread the word to help others avoid these traps. Talk with family members and friends about protecting themselves from these convincing scammers.
Contact information for the three major credit reporting agencies in the United States:
Experian
- Website: https://www.experian.com/
- Phone Numbers:
- General Inquiries: 1-888-397-3742
- Dispute Credit Report Items: 1-800-493-1058
- Fraud Alerts: 1-888-397-3742
- Mailing Address:
- Experian National Consumer Assistance Center
- P.O. Box 4500, Allen, TX 75013
TransUnion
- Website: https://www.transunion.com/
- Phone Numbers:
- General Inquiries: 1-800-916-8800
- Dispute Credit Report Items: 1-800-916-8800
- Fraud Alerts: 1-800-680-7289
- Mailing Address:
- TransUnion Consumer Relations
- P.O. Box 2000, Chester, PA 19016-2000
Equifax
- Website: https://www.equifax.com/
- Phone Numbers:
- General Inquiries: 1-888-548-7878
- Dispute Credit Report Items: 1-866-349-5186
- Fraud Alerts: 1-888-766-0008
- Mailing Address:
- Equifax Credit Information Services, LLC
- P.O. Box 740241, Atlanta, GA 30374
If you need to place a fraud alert or dispute an item on your credit report, it's best to contact the agencies directly using the information above. https://www.experian.com/blogs/ask-experian/how-to-contact-the-credit-bureaus