Most computer users and Internet surfers are now aware of Phishing and its variants Spear Phishing, Tabnabbing, Whaling, and Tabjacking. In this article, we will try to make you aware of two more variants or attacks or scams: Smishing and Vishing scams.
What are Smishing and Vishing scams?
In Phishing, an email “appearing” to be from a legitimate source is sent, requesting the recipient visit an authentic-looking URL to log in and enter sensitive personal data. The sender then harvests these data and misuses them to make profits.
What is Vishing
Vishing is a variant of Phishing, coined as a combination of Voice and Phishing.
Vishing attacks are usually initiated via telephone, where the caller, claiming to be from some legitimate organization or institution, calls to verify personal information about you. He may mention some basic details about you correctly, leading you to believe it’s real. A smart caller then may unknowingly extract sensitive information about you from you.
Alternatively, you may receive an email asking you to call up a particular telephone number immediately to prevent your account from being blocked. Here again, a shrewd talker will try to fool you into inadvertently divulging some personal financial details about you.
A typical Vishing scamster may use Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) and even leave a Toll-Free number for you to call.
What is an example of vishing scam?
An example of a vishing scam is when attackers pose as bank representatives, either through a call or a prerecorded message, claiming there’s an issue with your account or a recent transaction. This tactic aims to trick you into revealing personal or financial information.
What is Smishing
With text messaging becoming so popular, scams involving SMSs had to appear! Smishing is a term coined from Short Message Service (SMS) and Phishing. In these scams, you may receive an SMS stating that your account will be charged since you have confirmed enrollment in some particular program or service like a dating service, some club, some vacation scheme, some phony purchase, and so on. And that if you do not reply within, say, two days, your account with be charged with some money. You may then be asked to visit a URL and click on Cancel to cancel the order. Clicking on such links or Cancel/Confirm options may download a trojan, exposing your mobile device to criminal access.
What is an example of smishing?
An example of smishing is receiving a text message that appears to be from your bank, asking you to verify your account details by clicking on a malicious link. The attacker uses this deception to steal your personal information or money.
Is vishing the same as phishing?
No, vishing is not the same as phishing. Phishing involves fraudulent electronic communications like emails, while vishing uses voice calls to deceive individuals. Understanding both can help implement effective prevention measures to avoid falling victim to these scams.
What are some vishing and smishing tactics?
Common SMiShing tactics include fake security alerts and messages from purported government agencies. Vishers may impersonate entities like banks, bill collectors, and other organizations. To safeguard against these attacks, ensure your mobile devices have antivirus protection and stay cautious of unexpected messages.
Avoid falling prey to Vishing and Smishing scams
Whatever happens, do not panic! Do not respond to such emails, phone calls, or SMS messages.
If you do receive them, call up the bank number or write a fresh email or phone the bank directly on the contact details which you know to be genuine. This is the most basic common-sense rule to follow!
You may also wish to consider reporting such scams to your local authorities.
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