Scam Alert: Experts warn of a spike in ‘Smishing’ scams
Fraud is a billion-dollar industry globally, and criminals are relentless
YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - It seems that each time we turn on the news or read a headline, we're seeing a new scam in our area. Criminals are relentless in their pursuit of getting rich the easy way.
Why are there so many? Because they work. Globally, fraud accounts for billions of dollars in losses to people and companies. In their wake, companies fold, and people's lives are destroyed.
According to the Better Business Bureau, the latest scam making its rounds are 'Smishing' scams. So, 'Smishing' comes from scams done over the 'short message service' or SMS (text).
Criminals have an arsenal of tools at their disposal, databases filled with our phone numbers, spoofing software that allows them to alter their name, appearing to be someone you know of a government entity.
Their most valuable tool is jurisdiction. Since many of the calls are made overseas, most criminal enterprises are pretty much untouchable.
That in turn, leaves out the offensive. This means it's up to us to be on the defensive when it comes to our identities and our money.
Tools like the Better Business Bureau's Scam Tracker site allow us to keep updated on all the scams happening nationally and in our area. It also allows users to report any possible scammers they may have encountered.
John Hessinger the BBB's Community Development Director says that people need to be mindful of possible scam texts. If a text has a link attached to it, and you don't recognize the name or number, avoid it.
Creating a fake link is easy and clicking on it could give scammers access to your device. Experts say if your service provider offers any kind of scam screening, take advantage of it. If you have doubts about the authenticity of the link search for possible scams using a similar link.
