JEFFERSON COUNTY, Ala. (WBMA) — Fraudulent text message scams known as “smishing” are targeting consumers nationwide, prompting the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office to warn residents to stay alert for deceptive messages designed to steal personal and financial information.
The scams use text messages that impersonate trusted organizations, including major companies, financial institutions and government agencies. The goal is to trick recipients into clicking malicious links, sharing sensitive information or downloading harmful software.
Recent reports indicate scammers are increasingly using urgent language and realistic branding to pressure people into acting quickly. Common messages claim there are issues with package deliveries, suspicious account activity, or offer fake rewards and refunds…