Anti-Smishing: Why It Matters More Than Ever

SMS continues to be one of the fastest and most personal channels for communicating with customers. One-time passwords (OTPs) arrive in seconds, delivery updates reach recipients anywhere, and timely promotions can drive immediate engagement.

Yet, alongside this efficiency lies a rising challenge: smishing (SMS phishing). Fraudsters send deceptive messages impersonating trusted entities—such as banks, delivery services, or even your own brand—to trick recipients into sharing sensitive information. These attacks not only jeopardize customer safety but can also reduce your message deliverability if carriers mistakenly flag legitimate traffic as suspicious.

Even when your campaigns are fully compliant, smishing across the ecosystem prompts carriers and regulators to enforce stricter filtering. To maintain trust and high delivery rates, it’s essential to ensure every message is secure, verified, and reliably delivered.

This guide covers what smishing is, how it works, common attack patterns, and a practical safety protocol to protect both your customers and your SMS performance.

How Smishing Works

Smishing exploits the speed and intimacy of text messaging. Attackers craft urgent or enticing messages—warning of account issues, missed deliveries, or exclusive offers—to provoke hasty action. The goal is to lure recipients into clicking malicious links or disclosing confidential details like passwords or payment information.

Below are common smishing tactics to recognize:

1. Posing as a Bank or Financial Institution

Example: “Your account has been locked for security reasons. Click to verify your identity.”

The link leads to a fake site designed to capture login credentials, card numbers, or PINs.

2. Impersonating Government Authorities

Example: “The IRS is filing a lawsuit against you. Call for details.”

Scammers may threaten penalties, promise refunds, or pose as law enforcement.

3. Pretending to Be Your Telecom Provider

Example: “You’re eligible for a free iPhone upgrade. Click to activate.”

The link directs to a spoofed page that collects account login details.

4. Mimicking Shipping or Postal Services

Example: “Your package is delayed. Click to reschedule delivery.”

Fraudsters impersonate FedEx, UPS, or other couriers to extract payment or tracking data.

5. Offering Fake Customer Support

Example: “We detected a login from a new device. Confirm it was you.”

Attackers pose as support from Amazon, Microsoft, or cryptocurrency platforms.

6. Posing as Technical Support

Example: “AWS security detected a threat on your servers. Contact support now.”

Victims are urged to call or grant remote access—never comply.

7. Warning of Service Disruptions

Example: “Your subscription has been suspended due to a payment issue.”

The intent is to panic users into updating payment details on a fraudulent site.

8. Announcing Prizes or Winnings

Example: “Congratulations! You’ve won a prize. Claim it before it expires.”

No reward exists—only requests for personal data or “processing fees.”

9. Creating Fake Emergencies

Example: “Your family member has been in an accident. Call this number urgently.”

These emotionally charged messages aim to bypass rational judgment.

Smishing Safety Guide: The AVOID–PROTECT–INSPECT Protocol

Follow this simple, proven framework to stay safe and help prevent smishing success:

AVOID

• Do not click links, open attachments, or reply to suspicious texts—even with “STOP.”
• Replying confirms your number is active, inviting more attacks.

PROTECT

• Enable two-factor or multi-factor authentication (2FA/MFA) on all accounts.
• Install reputable antivirus software and scan your device regularly, especially after accidental clicks.
• Use strong, unique passwords and update them immediately if compromise is suspected.
• Never share sensitive information (passwords, card details, addresses) via SMS.

INSPECT

• Verify all requests directly with the official organization using contact details from their verified website or app.
• Regularly review bank statements, credit reports, and account activity for anomalies.
• Report suspicious messages to your carrier, local cybercrime authorities, or platforms like the FTC (in the U.S.) before deleting.

Conclusion

Smishing is a sophisticated and evolving threat that preys on trust and urgency. By staying informed, questioning unsolicited messages, and following the AVOID–PROTECT–INSPECT protocol, you can significantly reduce your risk.

For businesses and individuals seeking advanced protection, Hacom offers a robust solution that identifies and blocks smishing threats before they reach your inbox—ensuring secure, compliant, and reliable SMS communication.