Smishing Attacks Are Surging – How to Protect Your Business from Text Message Scams

In an era where cyber threats evolve rapidly, cybercriminals are shifting their tactics to exploit one of the most common communication channels: text messaging. The FBI recently issued a warning about a surge in smishing—a form of phishing that uses SMS messages to trick recipients into revealing sensitive information.

What is Smishing?

Smishing (SMS phishing) involves fraudulent text messages designed to manipulate recipients into clicking malicious links or providing personal details. These messages often impersonate legitimate companies, banks, government agencies, or delivery services to create a false sense of urgency.

Common smishing scams include:

• Fake package delivery notifications – “Your package is delayed. Click here to track it: [malicious link]”
• Bogus bank alerts – “Suspicious activity detected on your account. Verify now: [malicious link]”
• Toll or parking fines – “Unpaid toll detected. Pay immediately: [malicious link]”
• Tech support scams – “Your device has been compromised. Contact Apple/Google support: [fraudulent number]”

Why is Smishing on the Rise?

One of the biggest reasons smishing attacks are increasing is that people tend to trust text messages more than emails. Over the years, businesses and individuals alike have become more cautious about email-based phishing attempts, leading cybercriminals to shift their focus to SMS. Because texts feel more personal and direct, recipients are more likely to react quickly—especially when the message creates a sense of urgency, such as an unpaid bill or a bank fraud alert.

Additionally, smishing bypasses traditional email security filters. Many businesses have robust email protections in place, flagging suspicious emails before they ever reach an employee’s inbox. But when it comes to SMS, there are fewer tools available to screen for fraudulent messages, making it easier for attackers to reach their targets undetected. With mobile devices now being used for everything from banking to business communications, cybercriminals see smishing as an easier and more lucrative attack vector than ever before.

How to Protect Yourself and Your Business

• Never click on unsolicited links – Always verify URLs before clicking. Instead, go directly to the company’s website or app.
• Be cautious with urgent messages – Scammers rely on panic tactics. Take a moment to verify before reacting.
• Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) – Even if scammers get some of your information, 2FA can add an extra layer of security.
• Use mobile security solutions – Many mobile providers offer scam protection tools to filter out malicious texts.
• Educate your employees and customers – Businesses should train employees on smishing threats and implement company-wide policies for handling suspicious messages.

What To Do If You Fall for a Smishing Attack

If you’ve clicked a link or provided information to a scammer:

• Report it to your mobile carrier (forward the message to 7726)
• Change your passwords immediately if login details were shared
• Monitor your bank statements for unauthorized transactions
• Alert your IT/security team if it happened on a work device

Cybercriminals are relentless, but knowledge is power. By staying informed and taking proactive security measures, we can all stay one step ahead of smishing attacks.