New Smishing Scam

There is a new Smishing scam for you to be aware of. Smishing is Pfishing but aimed at cell phones instead of e-mail. According to law enforcement, the scam is aimed at Android users. Cybercriminals send a text message to your phone claiming you have a delivery that needs to be paid for with a link in the text that takes you to a page asking you to update your Google Chrome app. When you tap “Install Now” a download starts and you’re redirected to a payment screen, but any payment information you give goes directly to the cybercriminals. Also that download that starts…that actually downloads malware onto your phone that uses your mobile number to send out thousands more random smishing texts to other potential victims. Experts advise that you should never click on links you can’t verify….and only download update apps from your device’s official app store like Google Play. Although this scam is mainly targeted at Android users, the smishing scam can be used on any type of phone so iPhone users are encouraged to be on the alert as well.