Receiving fraudulent bank alert texts, commonly known as "smishing" attacks, is a prevalent issue in the United States. These deceptive messages often impersonate financial institutions to steal personal information. To protect yourself, consider installing the following applications:
Robokiller
Robokiller is a comprehensive spam call and text blocker that utilizes a global database of known scammers and machine learning to identify and block unwanted messages. It offers features like "Answer Bots" that engage spam callers, wasting their time and preventing them from reaching you. Robokiller is available for both iOS and Android devices. (mcafee.com)
Truecaller
Truecaller is a widely used app that identifies and blocks spam calls and SMS messages. It maintains a large global database of spam numbers, updated daily with community feedback. Truecaller provides real-time caller ID, spam call auto-block, fraud detection alerts, and SMS spam protection. The app is available for both iOS and Android devices. (rahsha.in)
Hiya
Hiya offers smart call and text filtering, alerting users in real-time about suspicious messages. It provides caller ID, displaying the name and reason for the call, and includes voicemail protection and spoofed call blocking. Hiya is available for both iOS and Android devices. (techlog360.com)
Nomorobo
Nomorobo is a cloud-based service that blocks robocalls, telemarketers, and spam texts. It uses a database of known robocall numbers, updated daily, to filter unwanted messages. Nomorobo is available for both iOS and Android devices. (getvoip.com)
Built-in Phone Features
Both iPhone and Android devices have built-in features to help filter spam messages:
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iPhone: Go to Settings → Messages → Filter Unknown Senders to send unwanted messages from unknown texters to a separate list. (mcafee.com)
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Android: Open your Messages app, open the unwanted message, then tap Add to blocklist or a similar option, depending on your phone’s manufacturer. (mcafee.com)
Carrier Services
Major U.S. carriers offer free spam-blocking services:
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AT&T: ActiveArmor blocks scam calls and texts.
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Verizon: Call Filter detects and blocks spam calls and texts.
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T-Mobile: Scam Shield uses AI to recognize and block fraudulent calls and texts. (mcafee.com)
Reporting Spam Texts
To help authorities combat spam, report suspicious texts by forwarding them to 7726 (SPAM). Additionally, report them to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). (mcafee.com)
Conclusion
To protect yourself from fake bank alert texts, consider installing apps like Robokiller, Truecaller, Hiya, or Nomorobo. Utilize your device's built-in features and carrier services for added protection. Always verify suspicious messages through official channels and report them to help authorities combat these scams.
