FISHING? NO, I SAID SMISHING . . .
Annoying text messages are a common occurrence these days. Which ones are legit? Which ones are not? Here’s a few tips on recognizing and what to do when you get these types of text messages. Scammers are getting very sophisticated, so you need to stay on your toes.
How many of these looks familiar?
What is a “Smishing” scam? It is a scam that comes to you via a SMS text message on your personal devices. We have all gotten them. And the immediate response is to click on the link because we worry that it is something important… IT IS NOT!
Learn the warning signs of a smishing scam:
- A text message requesting personal information, such as your Social Security number or an online account password.
- A text message asking you to click the link to resolve a problem, win a prize or access a service.
- A text message claiming to be from a government agency. No government agency is going to sent you a text message!
- A text message offering coronavirus-related testing, treatment or financial aid, or requests personal data for contact tracing.
- A text message confirming your purchase of an item you did not purchase.
- A text message that looks like it came from your bank, financial institution, or credit card company asking you to update or verify your information.
In all of the above instances, if in doubt that the message is legit, it is best to contact the source directly. Call your bank or credit card company to ask if they sent you a message. Log on your computer to such accounts and verify that you do not have a purchase on the account. If you do, and you did not make it, then notify them immediately. The most IMPORTANT thing – when in doubt or if it’s too good to be true, then don’t do it.
Sherry Le, HOA Neighborhood Watch Chair
Neighborhood Watch relies on everyone to be the “Eyes and Ears” of Tellico Village. If you witness a crime in progress, please call 911. For non emergency incidents, you can contact the Loudon County Sheriff’s Department at (865) 458-9081. Forward any information to your Neighborhood Watch Coordinator.