Receiving unsolicited text messages with suspicious links, commonly known as "smishing," is a prevalent issue among mobile users in the United States. These messages often aim to deceive recipients into revealing personal information or downloading malicious software. Implementing effective strategies can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to such scams.
What Are Suspicious Link Texts?
Suspicious link texts are unsolicited messages that contain hyperlinks designed to deceive recipients into clicking them. These links may lead to fraudulent websites or initiate the download of malicious software. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) reports that bank impersonation text message scams surged in 2022, with consumers losing over $330 million. (apnews.com)
How Can I Block Suspicious Link Texts on My iPhone?
Utilize Built-in Filtering Features:
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Filter Unknown Senders: Navigate to Settings > Messages and enable Filter Unknown Senders. This feature directs messages from unknown contacts to a separate tab, reducing the likelihood of encountering spam in your main inbox. (guidingtech.com)
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Report Junk: When you receive a suspicious message, tap Report Junk below the message. This action forwards the message to Apple and deletes it from your device. (uscellular.com)
Block Specific Senders:
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Open the Messages app and select the conversation with the sender you wish to block.
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Tap the contact's name or number at the top, then tap the info icon.
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Scroll down and select Block this Caller. (guidingtech.com)
How Can I Block Suspicious Link Texts on My Android Phone?
Enable Spam Protection:
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Open the Messages app.
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Tap the three-dot menu icon and select Settings.
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Choose Spam protection and toggle it on. This feature helps identify and filter out spam messages. (uscellular.com)
Block Specific Senders:
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Open the Messages app and select the conversation with the sender you wish to block.
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Tap the three-dot menu icon and choose Details.
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Tap Block and report spam. (howtogeek.com)
How Can I Report Suspicious Link Texts to My Carrier?
Forward to 7726 (SPAM):
Most carriers allow users to report spam messages by forwarding them to 7726 (which spells "SPAM"). This helps carriers identify and block spam sources. (verizon.com)
How Can I Protect Myself from Suspicious Link Texts?
Exercise Caution:
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Avoid Clicking Unsolicited Links: Do not click on links from unknown or untrusted sources.
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Verify Through Official Channels: If a message claims to be from a legitimate organization, contact them directly using official contact information to verify the message's authenticity. (apnews.com)
Stay Informed:
- Educate Yourself: Regularly update yourself on common scam tactics and stay informed about the latest security features available on your device.
By implementing these strategies, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to suspicious link texts and enhance your mobile security.
Highlights:
- Your Android can detect scam texts - here's how to use Circle to Search to spot them, Published on Monday, December 22
- Google says Android phones now block more scams than iPhones, Published on Friday, October 31
- Text Messages Can Be One of the Best Ways for Scammers To Take Your Data - Here's How To Spot a Fake and How To Protect Yourself, Published on Tuesday, August 26
