THREE has revealed five signs that a dangerous text is lurking in your inbox.
Check your iPhone and Android now – and then delete any offending messages that might be waiting for you to become their next victim.
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UK mobile network Three warns that these “smishing” texts are designed to trick you into handing over cash or info.
You could even end up with an “infected” device that’s controlled or stalked by criminals.
And the texts will typically claim to be from some kind of trusted organisation – in a bid to trick you.
In an official security memo, Three revealed red flags to watch out for.
Scam texts to watch out for
The first sign is that the text in your messaging app contains a specific threat.
This is typically that “you’re going to be locked out of your account”, according to Three.
However they may also warn you that your account has been compromised.
It’s usually very easy to check if this is the case by going into your account security settings.
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Avoid clicking on any links in the email or handing over info.
The second is a promise of a freebie, designed to tempted you.
“You’ve won something or can get something for free or at a bargain price if you reply quickly,” Three said, describing the text message.
Often the best rule of thumb is that if it seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Treat freebies with extreme caution, and don’t hand over any information.
Third up is when the unexpected message contains a link.
It can be tempting to click a link in a text, especially if it comes with a promise or threat.
But once you click a link, your device could be compromised – or you could be taken to a fraudulent website designed to hoodwink you.
Ignore links in unexpected texts to stay safe.
Fourth is when the text asks for confidential info.
It’s unlikely that a major organisation would demand your password or date of birth over text.
Treat any requests for personal, private info with scepticism.
The fifth is a text that asks you to call a phone number.
Often this is just a ploy to get you to call a premium rate number.
Alternatively, you may end up on the line with a scammer who is skilled at extracting cash or info from unwitting victims.
Staying safe from scams
“If you’re still not sure, get in touch with the organisation that seems to have sent you the message to see if it’s from them,” Three said.
“Just make sure you don’t use any of the contact details from the text – go to their website to find more info.”
The good news is that it’s very easy to stay safe from smishing attacks
“Remember: you have to reply to one of these messages to put your device at risk, so they’ll always ask you to take an action,” Three explained.
To avoid being caught out, simply ignore the message and delete it from your phone.
You can also forward the text to 7726 for free so that your phone provider can investigate it.
This post first appeared on Thesun.co.uk
