Scams targeting text messages now hitting Yuma

If you get one, don’t click the link – just delete the text message

If you’ve been getting weird text messages lately, know you aren’t alone. Spammers are taking their efforts to a new level, attempting to reach people via text message.

The Yuma Sun has heard from Yumans who have received text messages that appear to come from businesses like FedEx and Amazon, yet the recipients had not ordered anything.

The FedEx one, for example, states, “Hello mate, your FEDEX package with tracking code XXX is waiting for you to set delivery preferences,” followed by a link.

Now, “Hello mate” is pretty much a giveaway that this isn’t from FedEx, so whatever you do, DON’T CLICK THAT LINK.

Researching these text messages online, the Yuma Sun found an article from HowToGeek that recommends people immediately block the sender, and then delete the text message.

HowToGeek actually clicked through on one of the links, and found the link claimed the recipient was “today’s lucky visitor,” and would get free rewards as a result. All the recipient has to do is turn over their credit card information to cover the shipping and handling fee.

However, in the fine print, HowToGeek notes that the recipient is also signing up for a 14-day trial, after which the person will be billed $98.95 every month.

So much for free, right? As usual, the devil is in the fine print.

AT&T says sending these scam text messages is called SMiSHing, because texts are SMS or “short message system” messages.

AT&T offered a few tips to help protect people from SMiSHers.

• Only open text messages from someone you know and trust.

• Don’t send personal information to unknown numbers or senders – regardless of what company they claim to be with.

• Always go directly to a company’s website, not the link included in the text message. Scammers can and will build fake websites that look exactly like the real site

It’s unfortunate that we have to be vigilant about text messages, but spammers will go to great lengths to get your personal information. Be vigilant, Yuma, and don’t fall for these scams!

DO YOU AGREE WITH THIS OR NOT?