Scam artists are constantly adapting their tactics to trick unsuspecting victims into giving away personal information or money. If you’ve received a strange text message recently—one that seems too good to be true or suspiciously urgent—you’re not alone. Scam text messages, or “smishing” (SMS phishing), are on the rise across the country, and San Diego County is no exception.
One of the most common forms of fraud we’re seeing right now involves scam text messages — often referred to as “smishing,” a combination of “SMS” and “phishing.” These fraudulent messages arrive daily on mobile devices across San Diego County, so it’s critical that you know how to recognize them.
Scam texts may look like they come from trusted sources — banks, delivery services, government agencies, or even local businesses. They often contain urgent messages designed to scare or pressure you into clicking a link or responding. Once you do, scammers can install malware, steal your identity, or gain access to your financial accounts…