Billions of Android and iPhone owners told ‘giant red flag’ can empty bank – look for cash-stealing text right now
ANDROID and iPhone users have been warned to watch out for a major red flag that can stop them from getting cash stolen.
It comes in the form of a suspicious text message that should be deleted.
Chase Bank has released an example of a common scam text that they think everyone should be wary of.
“Perhaps you’ve received a call or text from the IRS saying you owe thousands right now.
“Or a text from your bank, telling you there has been suspicious activity and to follow a link to confirm a transaction.
“These are giant red flags! Remember, the IRS does not call people to collect tax debts, they send letters.”
The bank goes on to state that financial institutions are unlikely to send texts that ask you to call them back or open a link.
It advises requesting official communication by mail with your bank.
You could also call the number on your bank statements or bank cards to confirm whether the text is a scam.
A text like this is an example of smishing.
Smishing is a term that regards criminal phishing scams that are sent over SMS.
How to avoid “smishing”
You can set up spam protection on your phone to try and stop smishing.
On Android, there’s an “Enable spam protection” feature.
Apple has a “Filter Unknown Senders” feature on its iPhone that can flag strange messages.
You should also follow the common techniques to spot phishing.
You should be thorough when checking who the text is from.
Even if it looks official, you should double-check the email and look for any spelling mistakes or slight abnormalities in the sender’s email address.
Never feel pressured into opening an attachment and avoid clicking the phrase “enable content.”
You should also be wary of links in text messages.
If you’re certain a text you have received is a scam then delete it.