Don’t be “Smish”ed

Smishing is a type of scam used to collect personal information on cell phones and other mobile devices. The word smishing is derived from the word phishing (Internet scams). The sm refers to SMS, the protocol used to transmit text messages. There are two common types of Smishing scams.

1. Text messages that ask you to register for a type of service, commonly a dating service. If responded to, a virus can affect your mobile device. Spyware that can hear your conversations can also be downloaded.
2. Messages that ask you to unregister your information to stop from being charged a fee. This is an attempt to collect your personal information.

To avoid being a victim of a smishing attempt, do not respond to messages from people and companies you don’t know. If you suspect fraudulent activity with any of your UW Credit Union accounts, contact us.