Cybersecurity Tip of the Week – Texting Scams On the Rise

Scams received via text, or SMS messaging, are called smishing. This type of scam is on the rise as cybercriminals increasingly use text messages to trick individuals into revealing sensitive information or clicking malicious links.

Over the weekend, my husband informed me of a text he received from the Tennessee Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) stating that he had an outstanding traffic ticket. If he didn't pay it within 24 hours, penalties could be as severe as the suspension of driving privileges for 30 days.

What are the red flags with this text? #1 - the DVM doesn't keep a list of traffic tickets, which is in the hands of the jurisdiction of the officers who wrote them. #2 - sense of urgency. #3 - it came from an unofficial sender. #4 - the government doesn't use text messaging to contact people, they use official, written documentation mailed to you.

Protect yourself from these types of scams the same way you've been taught with phishing emails. Verify the source, avoid clicking links or calling the phone numbers provided in the text, and don't continue the conversation via text. Block the number, and if possible, report the incident to your carrier.