Smishing (SMS Phishing)

Smishing is a form of text message fraud that cybercriminals use to lure victims into revealing sensitive data, sending money, or installing malware on a smartphone or device. The word “smishing” is a combination of the phrases “short message service (SMS)” and “phishing.” SMS is the technology that powers sending and receiving text messages, while phishing is a social engineering attack where cybercriminals attempt to trick individuals into revealing sensitive data — such as passwords or credit card numbers — by disguising themselves as a trustworthy organization or person.

• Smishing is a form of phishing that uses text messages to deceive victims into revealing sensitive information, sending money, or installing malware on their devices.
• Cybercriminals often impersonate trusted entities like banks, delivery services, or government agencies to create a sense of urgency and trick recipients into taking immediate action.
• Protection against smishing attacks includes being wary of unsolicited messages, enabling two-factor authentication, using SMS filtering tools, and educating oneself about the latest smishing techniques.

Like standard phishing, smishing operates on the principle of deception. Cybercriminals create text messages that appear to come from trusted entities like banks, delivery services, or government agencies. These messages often contain a sense of urgency, warning of a problem with an account, a missed delivery, or even a legal issue.

The cybercriminal’s goal is to trigger an immediate response. The message usually includes a link, urging the recipient to click and resolve the supposed issue. This link, however, leads to a fraudulent website designed to mimic a legitimate one. Once on this fake site, victims are asked to enter sensitive information like login credentials, credit card details, or Social Security numbers.

Cybercriminals also use smishing text messages to spread malware or spyware. They might include a link that downloads malicious software onto your device or attach a file that installs malware. Once the malware is on your phone, it can steal sensitive data, track your activity, or even take control of your device.

A real-world example of smishing

Consider this scenario: It's the holiday season, and you're eagerly awaiting a package from your favorite online retailer. Suddenly, you receive a text message. It appears to be from the retailer, warning that there's an issue with your billing information and your order is on hold. The message urges you to click a link to update your details immediately or risk your gift not arriving in time.

The catch? This isn't a genuine message from the retailer. It's a carefully crafted smishing attempt. The link leads to a convincing but fake website that steals your credit card information. Once you enter your details, the scammers have what they need to commit identity theft, make fraudulent purchases, or drain your bank account.

Common steps of a smishing attack

Here are seven steps cybercriminals could use to target victims with a smishing attack:

1. Choose recipients: Attackers identify recipients by casting a wide net using phone numbers obtained from data breaches or targeting specific individuals based on prior knowledge.
2. Create messages: Often leveraging emotions like urgency, fear, or curiosity to prompt a quick response, attackers craft compelling text messages. These messages usually include a call to action, such as clicking a link or calling a number.
3. Send messages: Using SMS gateways, spoofing tools, or compromised devices, attackers send out smishing messages to selected recipients. These messages may appear to originate from trusted sources, adding to their deceptive nature.
4. Engage with the victim: The message encourages the recipient to interact upon receiving the message. This could involve clicking on a malicious link, replying with personal information, or calling a provided phone number.
5. Collect data: If a recipient falls for the trap, they may be redirected to a fraudulent website where they unwittingly enter sensitive data or unknowingly download malware onto their device. Sometimes, the interaction itself, such as calling a premium-rate number, may result in financial loss.
6. Exploit stolen information: The attacker uses the stolen information for identity theft, unauthorized transactions, or selling on the dark web.
7. Cover tracks: Attackers change their tactics frequently, such as using different phone numbers or employing various techniques to mask their identity and location.

To deepen your understanding of smishing attacks, let’s look at more real-world examples you might encounter.

Impersonating a financial institution

Attackers may send texts pretending to be from your bank, alerting you to suspicious activity or account problems. These messages typically include a link to a fake website designed to capture your login credentials or financial data.

Impersonating customer support

Smishing messages can also mimic customer support from tech or retail companies. They'll claim there's an issue with your account and urge you to click a link or call a fraudulent support line to provide sensitive information.

Impersonating government agencies or officials

Cybercriminals may pose as government agencies like the IRS, threatening legal action or fines unless you click a link or call a provided number. This can lead to the theft of personal data or financial scams.

Impersonating mailing and shipping companies

Smishing messages might claim there's a problem with package delivery and ask you to click a link to resolve it. These links often lead to fake shipping company websites designed to steal your address, payment details, or even install malware on your device.

Impersonating company leaders

Attackers may impersonate company executives, requesting urgent financial transactions or confidential information. These messages exploit trust and hierarchy within organizations, potentially leading to financial loss or data breaches.

Pretending to text the wrong number

This tactic involves sending a text that seems to be accidentally sent to the wrong person. Scammers then use the ensuing conversation to build trust and eventually try to extract money or personal information.

Offering an app download

Smishing messages may entice you to download a seemingly useful app, often disguised as a trusted brand. These apps are usually malicious, designed to steal data or install further malware on your device.

Phishing, smishing, and vishing are all social engineering tactics cybercriminals use to steal personal information, but they differ in their delivery methods.

• Phishing uses deceptive emails to trick recipients into clicking on malicious links or downloading harmful attachments. These emails often appear to be from legitimate sources, such as banks, social media platforms, or online retailers.
• Smishing uses text messages or messaging apps to deceive victims instead of emails. These messages typically contain urgent requests for information or links to fake websites designed to capture personal data.
• Vishing leverages voice calls or voicemails to trick individuals into revealing sensitive information. Attackers may impersonate bank representatives, government officials, or tech support personnel to gain the victim's trust and extract information directly over the phone.

Protecting yourself against smishing attacks starts with understanding the fundamentals of phishing protection. Here are some common ways to guard against social engineering attacks like phishing, smishing, and vishing:

Individuals

• Enable multifactor authentication (MFA): This security measure requires users to provide two forms of identification before accessing an account, such as a password and a temporary code sent to a phone or email. It significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access, even if a password is compromised.
• Be wary of unsolicited messages: Treat unexpected texts with skepticism, especially those claiming urgency or offering rewards. Verify the authenticity of any message by contacting the organization directly through official channels.
• Educate yourself and others: Stay informed about the latest smishing techniques and share this knowledge with family, friends, and coworkers. Awareness is a powerful tool in recognizing and avoiding scams.
• Ignore suspicious messages: Do not click on links or respond to texts from unknown or suspicious sources. Legitimate organizations typically do not request sensitive information via SMS.

Businesses

• Use SMS filtering tools: Many smartphones have built-in features or apps that can filter out or flag potential spam and phishing messages. These tools help reduce exposure to malicious texts.
• Install anti-phishing tools: Security software can detect and block phishing attempts, providing additional protection against smishing attacks. Regularly update these tools to ensure they recognize the latest threats.
• Verify sender identity: If a message requests personal information, verify the sender's identity by contacting the organization directly using contact information from their official website, not the message itself.
• Report smishing attempts: Reporting suspicious texts to your mobile carrier or relevant authorities can help them track and combat smishing campaigns, protecting others from similar attacks.
• Regular security training: Conducting regular security training sessions and simulations can help individuals and organizations better recognize and respond to smishing attempts, reducing the likelihood of falling victim.
• Keep software updated: Regular updates to your mobile operating system and security applications ensure you have the latest protections against known vulnerabilities and threats, reducing the risk of exploitation.

Remember, the key to protecting against smishing is vigilance and a healthy dose of skepticism. If something seems too good to be true or feels off, trust your instincts and take the time to verify the message before taking any action.