If you own a smartphone, you’ve likely had the irritating experience of getting a spam text. However, there’s reportedly an entirely new version of spam texts you need to be aware of.
Tech experts are now warning smartphone users about receiving and opening messages sent by SMS blasters, which defy lots of modern security measures and settings to get scammer texts into people’s inboxes. The technology is another example of the way scammers and hackers are managing to evolve their technology, and it’s affecting people in various regions around the world. Read more about how they work below.
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Tech Experts Are Warning Against Scam Messages From 'SMS Blasters'
Part of having a smartphone is getting pesky notifications and text messages from unknown numbers. These messages may be trying to convince you that you have a UPS order coming in or delayed, may try to imitate someone you know, etc. However, it's fairly universal knowledge that suspicious texts or calls from unknown numbers should be ignored, as they're likely from hackers or scammers.
Since spam calls and texts have been a part of modern technology for decades, smartphone manufacturers and major tech brands have also developed software to help keep their users safe, but now, there are certain methods for sending out spam texts that they can't seem to avoid. SMS Blasters are small devices that mimic cell towers and lead phones to use insecure connections. They then push scam messages, often containing links to malicious sites, to people's devices.
Tech experts have noted that numerous criminals have been caught with these devices in their cars. The scarier part about the technology behind these devices is that they're able to get past some of today's modern security measures.
What To Do If You Get A Suspicious Message
One of the ways SMS Blaster messages work is by forcing your phone to switch to a 2G signal, which is something that you can prevent in your smartphone settings. Typically, people who use 2G signal are those in rather rural or remote areas. However, if your phone does not use 2G, but rather 5G, 4G, and 3G, you can actually disable it.
According to tech experts, newer Android models offer the option to disable 2G signals, so those who do not need it or do not live or frequently travel to remote areas can do so. Unfortunately, it's not as accessible for iPhone users, whose option is to put their devices in Lockdown Mode, which ends up turning off other functions. Therefore, it's important to remember security basics when it comes to answering or opening unfamiliar messages.
"Beyond technical measures, vigilance and general precautions are crucial in combating fake text messages," notes cybersecurity experts at Kaspersky. "Instead of tapping links, sign in to your banking app or delivery service website directly from your bookmarks, your smartphone's home screen, or by manually typing the address into your browser."
Before panicking, simply remember to avoid clicking on any links sent to you from a number or email address you do not know. Additionally, you can delete and block any unfamiliar contacts and messages to avoid accidentally opening them later on. If you want information pertaining to your bank, shipping service, etc., be sure to contact them directly.
