TEXT MESSAGE SCAMS:
SMISHING
Consumer Alert
“Smishing”
!
Smishing is when scammers send text messages
pretending to be from trusted sources. The goal is to
get targets to respond with personal information like
passwords and credit card details or to click on links
that install malware. It is just like phishing that uses
emails; instead smishing uses texts.
More than 20 billion text messages are sent
every day in the United States.
A growing number of texts are from thieves trying to
scam you. They can send millions of smishing texts at
the same time. And because smartphone users are three Smartphone users are three times more
times more likely to fall for fake text messages than
computer users are to fall for fake email messages, text
likely to fall for fake text messages than
message scams are on the rise. computer users are to fall for fake email
messages.
A common smishing tactic is to send a text warning
about a fake problem with one of your accounts and
ask for your information. Some scammers will pitch
offers too good to be true or even promise free gift And those apps or free downloads often come with
cards or trips. Do NOT respond! You may get malware “terms of agreement,” that if you don’t read carefully,
or become an identity theft victim. may allow your number to be shared or sold.
What you need to know Forward smishing texts to 7726
Federal law makes it illegal to send commercial text If you are an AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, Sprint or Bell
messages to a mobile device without first getting the subscriber, you can report spam texts to your carrier
consumer’s permission. by copying the original text and forwarding it to 7726
This ban applies even if you have not placed your (SPAM), free of charge.
mobile number on the Do-Not-Call List, but there
are two issues. First, you may unknowingly give your Report smishing texts
consent, and second, criminals don’t follow the law.
If you cannot use 7726, then report smishing texts
Sharing the number for your device, buying apps, and to your mobile service provider and the Federal
using free or inexpensive ring tones or downloads put Communications Commission (FCC).
you at more risk.
Bill Schuette
Attorney General
TEXT MESSAGE SCAMS:
SMISHING
Consumer Alert
SPOT IT: Signs of a text scam
A text message that looks like it is from your bank and is about a problem with your account. A phone
number is listed for you to call immediately.
A text message from an unknown sender that asks you to call a number or click on a link or respond
with personal information.
A text message that reads: “REAL ROLEX 90% OFF, click here.”
A text message that says, “click here,” enter “x,” or reply “stop” to opt out of future messages.
STOP IT: Protect your mobile phone number
Don’t share your phone number unless you know the person or organization well.
Beware the fine print in user agreements for products or services that may use your phone number, like
mobile apps and free ring-tone offers.
NEVER follow a text’s instructions to push a designated key to opt out of future messages. Instead, forward
all questionable texts to 7726, so wireless carriers can investigate and block that sender.
Report scam texts to the Federal Communications Commission online; by phone 888-225-5322; or by mail:
FCC Consumer Complaints, 445 12th Street, S.W., Washington, DC 20554.
To file a consumer complaint or get additional information, contact the Michigan Department of Attorney
General:
Consumer Protection Division
P.O. Box 30213
Lansing, MI 48909
517-373-1140
Fax: 517-241-3771
Toll free: 877-765-8388
Online complaint form
The Attorney General provides Consumer Alerts to inform the public of unfair, misleading,
or deceptive business practices, and to provide information and guidance on other issues of Bill Schuette
concern. Consumer Alerts are not legal advice, legal authority, or a binding legal opinion from the
Department of Attorney General.
Attorney General
