Smishing?

Smishing proves to be yet another type of phishing attack that uses text messaging instead of emails as a weapon for getting sensitive information. This type of attack is dangerous just like email phishing. A smishing text often contains a fake link that looks realistic and takes victims to a form used to steal their information. The link possibly downloads malware such as viruses, ransomware, and spyware on the user's device.

These smishing text messages often use urgent message requests as a form of attack which is usually sent from a bank or courier delivery service, for example - they may claim that there's been a large withdrawal from your bank account, or that you need to track a missing package. It is easy to fall into such scams if we don’t stay alert and attentive at the right moment.

Vishing?

Fraud calls or fake voice calls come under the category of “Vishing”. These Hackers/attackers call user victims, usually use prerecorded robocalls, and pretend to be an official company to remove personal information from a user.

For example you as a user can get a call about your car's extended warranty. If you answer this fake call and get connected to an fake agent, you may be asked to provide information such as:

• First and last name
• Address
• Driver's license number
• Social Security number
• Credit card information

Whenever card details are asked, it is more likely to be an attack and one needs to be extremely alert while sharing sensitive details of your card.

Common steps to be taken for preventing Smishing and Vishing :

• Never click on links from someone who is a stranger and has no identity. Always user should visit directly to the real websites
• Never give sensitive information specifically card details to someone who contacts you as a stranger. If they show themselves as a bank representative – always be alert and check the validity of the person.
• We should try to answer calls or texts from numbers you don't recognize or are likely to be fake. Even if you answer only intending to ask to be taken off the list, the attackers can note that you have interacted with the call. This will likely increase the number of calls you get from scammers in general.

What if the Information is already Stolen?

• Freeze your Account – You can lock your account for free. Always be ready with how this is done. If you are aware of the scammer’s hold of your private information, freezing your card is the safest initial step to be taken to avoid further loss.
• Personal privacy scan - You can find out if your personal info is out on the web with some official guidelines given. You can check those links by consulting someone
• Identity theft protection - For complete identity theft protection after you've been victimized by a scammer, these official platforms provides a suite of tools that will help you keep check on identity after a run-in with a scammer. Some of these tools include:
  • Dark web surveillance
  • Credit card monitoring
  • Payday & non-credit loan alerts
  • Address alert change
  • SSN monitoring
  • Financial account activity monitoring