SMS messages used for information gathering are referred to as phishing texts or smashing. These messages are intended to collect personally identifiable information from users, which the con artists will use to defraud the victim of their money. An SMS message claiming to be from your bank or credit card company informing you that your account has a problem is an example of a smashing attack. Other typical phishing texts pose as representatives of the government, financial institutions, and internet delivery services. All phishing text message schemes use the same method of operation. They pose as a reputable institution and claim there is a problem with your account or delivery. You receive a link to fix this problem. You are prompted to enter sensitive information such as usernames, passwords, PINs, or other personal details after clicking the link. We have mentioned steps below to Report Suspicious Text Messages.
How to Report Suspicious Text Messages
Forward the Unwanted Messages to 7726 (“SPAM”)
The number 7726, which is spelled SPAM, has been designated by the Global System for Mobile Communications (GSMA) as the reporting number for spam SMS. The GSMA has hundreds of service providers from all over the world in addition to the majority of significant carriers in the U.S. Send a spam message to 7726 to report it. If your plan doesn’t include unlimited messaging, this will never be deducted.
Report Unwanted Texts to the FTC and FCC
Visit the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) Complaint Assistant page to file a complaint about fraudulent text messages. When you have selected “Phone, internet, and TV service” and “Cellular or landline phone service,” click “Report Now” and then “Continue.” You will be guided through a brief quiz regarding the message, the sending number, and other details. Additionally, you can easily inform the Federal Communications Commission of spam texts (FCC). Visit the Commission’s Consumer Complaint Center to do this, then complete a brief form there with your email address and details about the incident.
Final Words
That’s it with our article on how to Report Suspicious Text Messages. Phishing SMS messages are a nuisance that prey on the society’s most helpless members. Phishing SMS messages are used by con artists to gather personal data from their victims’ bank accounts and utilize it for their own evil purposes. Every day, the typical smartphone user gets thousands of spam and phishing texts.
