Thursday, July 3, 2008
Increasing numbers of internet fraudsters are making use of phishing techniques via SMS, it has been reported.
An article in Biz Community reveals that those companies who keep in touch with their clients by sending them text messages to their mobile phones could see their customers left at risk of phishers.
It was stated SMS phishing usually takes place when customers receive a message from what appears to a reputable financial organisation asking them to call a phone number to settle an alleged problem with their account.
Upon doing so they are then asked to give PIN numbers and other personal information which fraudsters then use to access consumers' accounts.
The publication warned businesses to make sure they send personalised SMS content to their customer and contain information in their messages which phishers would not have access to.
In their attempts at phishing protection, it was also reported that firms should ensure clients are aware of their SMS policies and that their overall marketing material is consistent.
Earlier this year, Janna Kiehl from the Better Business Bureau pointed out that attempts at identify theft on the part of internet fraudsters is "rampant" with such criminals now targeting prospective victims via SMS and email.
Related News:
Scammers launch vishing attacks - 9.11.2008
While the majority of businesses have become familiar with phishing scams looking to commit identity theft and fraud by obtaining sensitive details from unwitting employees, they also need to look out for vishing.
Identity theft 'main purpose of phishing' - 8.27.2008
Identity theft and fraud are among the main driving forces behind phishing attacks, it has been suggested.
Consumers urged to protect online identity - 8.20.2008
Three crucial points for protecting oneself from online identity theft have been identified by Identity Theft Daily website.
San Fran case highlights network security risks - 8.11.2008
The risks of entrusting network security to a single person have been highlighted by a recent case which took place in San Francisco, reports the Washington Post.
DNS flaw also affects email - 8.7.2008
A network security vulnerability recently identified in the domain name system (DNS) which could allow hackers to hijack websites also affects email servers, the researcher who discovered the problem has said.
