It has been a couple months since Americans were notified about Target's widespread data breach. but as more retailers come forward about their own cyber attacks, text scammers are trying to take advantage of the opportunity.
The Better Business Bureau wrote a blog post on these attacks, warning everyone to keep a close eye out for alleged text alerts. Signs that they may be fraudulent may include improper grammar, suspicious looking links and questions about personal information.
"Scammers use technology to make emails and phone calls appear to come from a reputable source," the BBB wrote. "Just because it looks credible does not mean it's safe."
Anyone who comes across a text that asks to confirm an address, Social Security number or name should contact the alleged business themselves. This way, customers are directly contacting a widely known customer service phone number with a trained representative.
Even though Target's situation is affecting over 100 million people, there are many other text messaging scams to look out for. It could come from a random website that is utilizing an SMS app to contact people or trying to represent a smaller organization.
Text scams can affect organizations of all sizes
In Virginia, hundreds of Chesterfield Federal Credit Union customers received text messages about "reactivating their bank account," a local NBC affiliate reported. Federal union Communications Director Chris Miller told the source that they are aware of the scam and is doing their part to block all fraudulent activity.
"You are not in any danger, your card is not in any danger, your accounts are not in any danger. If you did respond to it, contact your financial institution," Miller explained.
One way businesses can protect their customers from future text messaging scams is by implementing their own mobile marketing solutions. Swift SMS Gateway can help develop a secure strategy that will keep your business and client base safe from suspicious activity.
