Unexpected “short” text messages may lead to “long” term problems. Jay Elliott with the Better Business Bureau’s Tip-Off to the Rip-Off® on WBBM Newsradio has the details.
Be on the lookout for unexpected text messages from unknown numbers, saying things like “How are you?”, “Do you have time to talk?”, or “How about dinner?”
This is a popular “wrong number” scam. You receive an innocent text like, “Hi, is this Holly?” or “Sorry, wrong number,” and when you respond, you’re confirming that your number is active.
Then, if you click any links, they can lead you to a fake website designed to steal your passwords and personal information.
To protect yourself and others, don’t respond, don’t click links, and whenever you can, report the text message as a phishing attempt with your carrier.
For more information, go to BBB.org/ChicagoBuzz or WBBMNewsradio.com.