Apple’s ecosystem has always been about privacy and security. While it’s arguably more secure than Android, it isn’t immune to phishing attacks or the new-age SMS phishing, called smishing.
iPhone users are reportedly facing the iMessage smishing attack, and if users respond to such an attack, which is basically an unsolicited message, it may lead to hackers gaining access to their device. Here’s everything you need to know about the iMessage smishing attack, and how you can stay safe.
What’s the new iMessage smishing scam and how can you stay safe?
According to a report by a Cybersecurity portal, Bleeping Computer, cybercriminals are targetting iPhone users with a new iMessage smishing attack. This smishing technique can easily dupe iPhone users, allowing hackers to gain access to their iPhones.
How this works is that the hackers send a fraudulent message to users that looks like a message from official sources. What’s notable is that the fraud message displays a sense of urgency in the minds of the recipients, which may lead to them responding to it. And that’s exactly what the hackers want you to do.
Usually, the fraudulent message sent by the hackers is either about ‘shipping being undelivered’ or ‘paying toll’. These messages contain links, which cannot be opened due to iMessage’s security feature. But ideally these messages also prompt users to reply with Y or YES, NO, or STOP. Once you reply to these messages, all links will become clickable.
Even if you don’t click on the link right away, the hackers know that you are someone who responds to such messages. Consequently, they may send such messages occasionally, and if you click on the links and follow a few steps, like adding a profile to your device, hackers may end up getting access to your iPhone.
ALSO READ: 3 essential steps to take after receiving a scam call or message
The links sent by the hackers may also prompt you to fill your personal details, breaching privacy. For instance, for paying toll, you may be prompted to add your card details, among other things. While this smishing scam looks scary, you don’t need to fret, just follow the below steps and you won’t fall prey to such attacks.
– Avoid clicking on suspicious links from unofficial sources. Even if you feel it’s a legit link from your bank or other official sources, call them up and ask if such messages are to be entertained.
– Don’t reply to any of such suspicious messages that tell you to click on a link or display a sense of urgency.
That’s all you need to do to be safe from the iMessage smishing scam. What are your thoughts on iMessage smishing? Do let us know in the comments below.
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Pranav Sawant
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