FBI Issues Urgent Warning about Smishing Scams Targeting Phones

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The FBI has issued an urgent warning regarding a surge of malicious SMS text messages targeting mobile users across the United States.

The agency cautions both iPhone and Android users to delete any suspicious texts, known as smishing, which entice recipients to share personal and financial information. This warning comes as cybercriminals have registered over 10,000 new domains aimed at facilitating these scams.

According to recent reports, the texts typically claim that recipients have unpaid bills requiring immediate payment to avoid higher costs. They provide links directing users to dubious payment sites, a tactic that has made it easier for scammers to manipulate vulnerable individuals.

The FBI emphasizes that not only are scammers attempting to steal money, but clicking on these links may lead to identity theft. “If you receive a text like this, it’s crucial to be cautious,” said a Bureau spokesperson. “Delete any smishing texts you receive.”

Reports indicate that these campaigns have intensified, with several states issuing local warnings. Annapolis, Boston, and Denver are among cities where residents have been cautioned about these scams. The FBI notes that toll payment scams have specifically ramped up, with scammers exploiting legitimate toll services and delivery companies.

A spokesperson for Unit 42, a cybersecurity firm, reported the growing trend of smishing scams and their sophisticated approach. “Scammers are leveraging a toolkit crafted by cybercrime groups to frustrate efforts at detection,” they stated.

Victims have shared experiences of receiving texts displaying unusual formatting, including a suspicious dollar sign placement that differs from the customary format used in the U.S.

Dallas, Atlanta, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Orlando have been pinpointed as hotspots for these scams, with a notable uptick being reported in recent weeks. Some areas have observed a near quadrupling of fake toll scams by the end of February.

In Louisiana, Attorney General Liz Murrill echoed the FBI’s concerns, advising: “I received this text as well. It is a scam. If you ever receive a text that looks suspicious, be sure to never click on it.”

Experts advise consumers to verify any communication through official channels, noting that legitimate toll services will never redirect users to unfamiliar domains.

Whether it’s a claim of unpaid tolls or other urgent payment requests, the FBI’s message remains clear: avoid clicking any links from unexpected messages, delete smishing texts, and report scams if encountered.

To protect your personal information, the FBI encourages filing complaints with the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), including information about the originating phone number and the URLs provided in the messages. They remind users to monitor financial accounts closely and dispute any unfamiliar charges.

As cybercriminals adapt their tactics, the importance of vigilance and awareness increases. The FBI urges all mobile device users to remain cautious about unsolicited texts and to stay informed about ongoing scams that could compromise personal security.