How can you protect your phone from smishing scam attack? PTA issues guidelines

In an effort to ensure cyber security, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has decided to spread awareness about online scams. Recently, PTA took to Twitter to warn mobile phone users against “smishing”.

What is Smishing?

Smishing is a scam that turns a user’s mobile phone into an attack platform. It is a form of “phishing” using SMS or text messages instead of email messages to entice recipients to click on phony links that draw them to sites where either personal information is exchanged, or malware is unknowingly downloaded. Common smishing examples include bank notifications, package updates, act-now coupons, and urgent warnings. 

PTA’s Warning against Smishing

In the tweet, PTA said:

Smishing is where scammers use SMS/text messages to trick users into opening a malicious attachment or link.

Alongside defining smishing, the tweet further enlightened netizens on dealing with smishing.

What must you do if you witness a smishing attempt?

• Be suspicious of SMS/messages from unknown numbers claiming to be from a reputable organization, such as a bank or TV channel.
• Do not respond to text messages that request personal information without first independently verifying that they [SMS] are from a genuine source.
• Do not click on any links embedded inside an SMS.
• Report such numbers to your service providers.

Why is PTA actively informing citizens about cyber security?

PTA is currently observing a Cyber Security Week. Throughout this week, the telecommunication authority plans to run a social media campaign titled #CybersecurityWeek. Every day the authority shares new information & tips with online users to help them become more cyber aware and cyber secure.

Story originally published in Geo

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