More criminals are using text messages to try to get you to give them information. This is called SMiShing because texts are SMS or "short message system" messages.

Common Text Scams

SMiShing A text message leads you to a fake website that imitates a real company. That site will ask for personal information – username, password or credit card information.

Here’s how to help protect yourself:
  • Only open text messages from someone you know and trust.
  • Don’t send personal information by replying to a text from an unknown sender.
  • Always go directly to a company’s website, not the link included in the text message. Scammers can build fake websites using forged company logos, signatures and styles.
  • Ensure that a website is secure by checking to see whether there is an “s” after the http in the address and a lock icon at the bottom of the screen.
Spam text messages

Spam texts are unsolicited and unwanted ads. Avoid responding directly to these – doing so alerts the spammer that your phone number is genuine.

  • These messages usually count against your text plan.
  • If the text contains a telephone number, do not call the number. It is just another part of the scam.
  • They will likely come from a normal ten-digit phone number you don’t recognize. (such as 555-555-1234 rather than a short code number like 15005)
  • Do not call the number the text came from to ask what the text meant.
Example scams

Scammers specifically target you hoping to gain access to your account so they can make changes, order equipment, or obtain personal information.

  • An example of a fake scam offering an AT&T reward would direct you to a website that appears to be company-related, but is not: www.[fake-website].com - Simply log into your account to redeem your reward. At AT&T we care about you. Thank you and have a nice day. 
  • You could receive a message saying you have a “payment on hold” and you need to confirm your payment source or account status by calling a phone number and entering information.

Remember:
Be cautious of text or email requests asking for your personal, account or credit card information.

 

Report Suspicious Activity

If you receive a suspicious text message, forward it to us. Get step-by-step instruction to report unwanted text messages by following the link. Messages forwarded are free and will not count toward your text plan. If you get a suspicious email or text, do not reply. If you suspect you are a target of fraud on your AT&T mobile phone account, you can report it to our Fraud team here. If you suspect fraud on another account, call the customer service number on your bill for help.

To find out more about reporting fraud, check out our Resources page.

 

AT&T is Here to Help

The AT&T Mobile Security app for Android scans your smartphone and all of your apps for potential malware, including Trojans, worms, spyware, and other suspicious software. Mobile Security scans on demand and when app installation occurs. If you select Monitor File Settings, Mobile Security will also actively monitor your files for suspicious content. To learn more about AT&T Mobile Security, visit www.att.com/securitycallprotect.

 

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