21/03/2023
The National Cybersecurity Authority gives useful instructions to citizens so that they do not fall victim to smishing messages (SMS phishing). It is noted that recently there have been increased reports of sending such messages.
Smishing (also known as SMS phishing) is a form of attempted online fraud that is carried out via short text messages (SMS) via a mobile phone.
A smishing attack goes like this:
• The victim receives an SMS message in which the sender impersonates a trusted entity, organization or person.
• The SMS is short, and contains a link.
• By clicking, the unsuspecting user downloads malware to their device or is redirected to a malicious website where they are asked to provide their data, such as sensitive private information, passwords, identity or passport details, bank account, bank card and but.
You should not click on any link included in the message.
😑 You should not respond and react hastily to such messages even if they are presented as urgent. Spend some time searching the internet to investigate the authenticity of the message. If possible contact the alleged sender to confirm their authenticity.
😑 Do not give personal information such as passwords, card numbers/PINs, username, etc.
😑 In any case, access to the respective operator must not be carried out through links from any SMS message or email you received. It should be done through the official website of the institution, organization or bank (or through the official mobile application).
😑 Keep your device and apps up to date.