Be Aware of Text Message Scam
The ITS Cybersecurity and Identity teams have been made aware of a phishing scam through text message that has been reported as being received by university personnel.
- published: 2018/07/18
- contact: Cheryl O’Dell - Information Technology Services
- phone: 402.472.7851
- email: codell@nebraska.edu
- search keywords:
- Information Technology Services
- Text Message
- Scam
- Phishing
The ITS Cybersecurity and Identity teams have been made aware of ‘SMiShing’ (phishing SMS/text message) attempts targeting Nebraskans and has been reported as being received by university personnel. Smishing takes its name from SMS (Short Message Service, or text messaging) combined with the term phishing. Scam artists that send smishing messages are attempting to get your private information, your money, and your identity. The latest scam being reported is a text message promising people they can get $0 copay for their medical prescriptions.
When you receive an unusual text message from someone you do not know, especially prompting you to look at something on the internet, or asking you to provide your personal information, do not act on the text. Never select the link provided, and do not reply to the text. Use the same safety and security practices on your cell phone as you do on your computer. SmartPhone users have to be diligent watching for possible fake text messages they receive, just as they do when watching for phish emails they might receive.
Remember the following:
When you receive an unusual text message from someone you do not know, especially prompting you to look at something on the internet, or asking you to provide your personal information, do not act on the text. Never select the link provided, and do not reply to the text. Use the same safety and security practices on your cell phone as you do on your computer. SmartPhone users have to be diligent watching for possible fake text messages they receive, just as they do when watching for phish emails they might receive.
Remember the following:
- Government agencies, banks, and other legitimate companies never ask for personal or financial information, like usernames, passwords, PINs, or credit or debit card numbers via text message. Never provide this information in text messages to unknown phone numbers.
- Don’t be rushed. Smishing scams attempt to create a false sense of urgency by implying that an immediate response is required or that there is a limited time to respond.
- Don’t call a telephone number listed in an unsolicited text message. Scam artists often use email-to-text technology, short codes, or spoofed local numbers to hide their identity. You should contact the company identified in the text message using the information listed in your records.
- Use caution when providing your cell phone number or other information in response to pop-up advertisements and “free trial” offers. This personal information can be easily bought, sold, and traded, and make you a target for smishing scams.