Q. What is the new internet scam "Smishing"?
A. Internet scam artists have moved past your email inbox - because that was so two months ago - and are now targeting consumers through text messages. Although this scam has been around for a couple of years, it is just now becoming the new scamming 'fad'. "Smishing" scams operate by preying on consumers' sense of urgency. Examples of reported "smishing" scams could be your bank contacting you regarding an unauthorized charge or mystery shopping invitations that lead to shopping fraud.
The Better Business Bureau serving Southeast Tennessee and Northwest Georgia has been receiving calls from consumers claiming they have received a text message from a number claiming to be their bank informing them that their credit card has been frozen. Thankfully, those consumers did not bank with the specified financial institution; therefore they did not fall for the scam. It is most important to remember that scammers are not specifically singling out any particular person, but instead, playing a game of chance by hoping that someone they contact is connected to their referenced company.
To protect yourself from potential "smishing" attempts, consider the following:
Jim Winsett of the BBB. Use two-factor authentication. Two factor authentications is a two–step login process that provides you with an extra layer of security. In addition to a password requirement, the user will be required to provide a piece of information only they have such as a text message or phone call with an additional code.
Switch up your passwords. Make your password for each account different. If all of your accounts have the same password, once someone obtains it to one, they have the ability to hack into all of your accounts.
Contact the business to verify they contacted you. Reach out directly to the business provider over the phone that is contacting you via the internet to verify the email is genuine. As an example, call the number on the credit card referenced in the message.
Consider how the organization normally contacts you. If an organization normally reaches you by mail, be suspicious if you suddenly start receiving emails or text messages without ever opting in to the new communications.
Be aware and alert at all times, scammers are active each day.
Jim Winsett is president of the Better Business Bureau in Chattanooga.