Federal Bureau of Investigation Issues Alert: Prompt Removal of Specific Messages on Smartphones Recommended for Millions of Users
In a concerning development, a surge in SMS scams targeting iPhone and Android users has been reported across the United States, with the perpetrators traced back to organized Chinese criminal gangs operating outside U.S. jurisdiction.
The messages, primarily aimed at iPhone and Android users, are styled as warnings of unpaid tolls, DMV offenses, or fines, in an attempt to create a sense of urgency and trick recipients into divulging sensitive information or taking harmful actions. States like Florida, Georgia, Virginia, Iowa, and others have reported a new wave of DMV-themed messages, with attackers even impersonating federal agencies such as the FBI.
Despite efforts by Apple and Google to filter spam, the volume of scam texts seems unstoppable. Since the surge in June, the number of scam texts has not slowed down, with the first week of June alone seeing a near 800% increase.
The infrastructure used in these scams aligns with known patterns of low-cost, high-volume phishing-as-a-service operations. The campaigns use widespread SMS phishing and deceptive web infrastructure, including consistent domain naming conventions, reused frontend assets, and many domains hosted on a single malicious IP address, 49.51.75[.]162.
The FBI advises that any such text-regardless of whether it has been opened-should be deleted from users' devices, as there is no threat from texts left unopened or ignored on your phone. Recipients are urged never to click on links or respond, regardless of the urgency or authenticity of the message.
While specific information on SMS scams isn't detailed, these groups' adaptability and use of technology suggest they might employ similar tactics via text messages. This includes phishing via SMS, sending fake messages that mimic legitimate communications to trick users into providing sensitive information or installing malware.
Organized crime groups are known for their sophistication and adaptability, and these tactics demonstrate their potential to be applied to SMS-based scams. As the threat evolves, it is crucial for users to remain vigilant and be aware of these tactics to protect themselves from falling victim to these scams.
- To combat the rising issue of SMS scams, users might consider enhancing their cybersecurity measures, especially as they receive warnings on their smartphones about unpaid tolls, DMV offenses, or fines.
- The ongoing wave of DMV-themed SMS scams, such as those traced back to organized Chinese criminal gangs, underscores the need for gadget users, particularly those with iPhones and Android devices, to be cautious when receiving suspicious messages and to apply technology solutions that strengthen their cybersecurity.
