Why Smishing Matters
Cybercriminals are constantly evolving, and one of the fastest-growing threats today is smishing. What is smishing? It’s short for SMS phishing. Instead of email, attackers use text messages to trick people into giving away sensitive details like bank logins, credit card numbers, or personal information.
With over 90% of adults using mobile phones daily, attackers know text messages feel more urgent and trustworthy than emails. That’s exactly why smishing is so dangerous.
What Is Smishing?
Smishing is a cyberattack that uses fraudulent SMS messages to manipulate victims into clicking malicious links or handing over information.
Messages often look like they come from banks, delivery services, government agencies, or trusted brands. They create urgency or curiosity, “Act now or lose access!” to pressure recipients into acting without thinking.
How Does Smishing Work?
Most smishing attacks follow a three-step process:
- The Bait – A text arrives, pretending to be from a trusted source (e.g. “Suspicious activity detected on your account”).
- The Hook – It contains a call to action, such AS a link to “verify details” or a request to reply with sensitive info.
- The Trap – If the victim complies, their data is stolen or malware is installed on their phone.
Common Examples of Smishing
- Banking alerts: “Your account is locked. Click here to restore access.”
- Delivery notifications: “We couldn’t deliver your package. Update details here: [malicious link].”
- Prize scams: “Congrats! You’ve won a £500 gift card. Claim now.”
- Government impersonation: “You’re eligible for a tax rebate. Submit info here.”
- Account verification: “Your account will be closed unless you confirm your password.”
Each message looks urgent, but the real goal is to steal your data.
Why Is Smishing So Dangerous?
- Higher trust in texts: People are more likely to believe SMS messages than emails.
- Mobile device risks: Smaller screens make it harder to spot fake links.
- Big consequences: Smishing can lead to identity theft, drained bank accounts, and corporate data breaches.
How to Protect Yourself Against Smishing
- Verify the sender – Call the organisation directly using official numbers.
- Don’t click links – Always go to the official website manually.
- Use mobile security apps – They can flag suspicious links and malware.
- Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) – Adds an extra layer of protection.
- Report smishing attempts – Forward messages to 7726 (UK reporting service) or your provider.
- Stay educated – Keep up to date with the latest scam tactics.
How Businesses Can Combat Smishing
Organisations are major targets, especially through employee mobile devices. Businesses should:
- Deliver regular staff training on recognising SMS scams.
- Enforce mobile device management (MDM) to protect corporate data.
- Create clear security policies for communication.
- Deploy multi-factor authentication across accounts.
At Commercial Networks, we help SMEs put these layers in place quickly and effectively.
The Future of Smishing
Smishing is only getting more sophisticated. Attackers are beginning to use AI-powered texts and even deepfake voice follow-ups. On the defence side, AI and machine learning are helping mobile networks detect and block suspicious SMS messages.
It’s a race, but awareness and training are your strongest first line of defence.
Don’t Get Hooked by Smishing
Smishing is a simple scam with devastating consequences. By staying vigilant, verifying messages, and building strong cyber hygiene habits, you can avoid becoming a victim.
📞 Want to protect your business against smishing and other cyber threats? Talk to us at Commercial Networks today about our Shield package. Call us on 0333 444 3455 or email sales@cnltd.co.uk for a free consultation.
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