This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it.Learn more Scammers are constantly on the lookout for new ways to fool us all, and it seems the latest threat is arriving via the humble text message.According to the security team at Malwarebytes, there has been a sudden rise in fake chats arriving on phones.
Some simply start with the word 'Hello' whilst others suggest the cyber crook already knows you.Read more: Why you should use an eSIM to save money on your foreign holiday this summer Read more: Sky dishes out iPhone and Android upgrade for £1 but only for a limited time "Hi, I noticed your contact information is saved in my contacts, can you remind me where we talked before," a message seen by Malwarebytes reads.Article continues below ADVERTISEMENTThe idea behind these latest chats is to get to know you and find out personal information, which can then be used to steal data."As soon as you reply, the scammer will initiate a friendly conversation.
Their end goal will be to gain your trust and develop the relationship into a costly romance or investment scam," Malwarebytes explained.It might sound far-fetched, but these cons do really work.The infamous "Hi mum" attack - which pretends a family member is in trouble - has seen hundreds of thousands of pounds handed to cyber thieves in the UK alone.Apple unveils AI-powered iPhone 16 range It's now vital that everyone with an iPhone or Android device stays alert, does not respond or click on any links sent via an unknown contact.Explaining more, Malwarebytes said, "Responding confirms your number is active.It flags you as someone who reads texts and might engage and the scammer may sell or share your number."If you do get a message that you are concerned about, then here's some simple advice to follow.• Don’t reply, not even to be helpful.
Don’t engage in conversation, even if they seem friendly.• Never click on links.• Block the number.• Report the message to your carrierYou have been warned.Read Next SUBSCRIBE Invalid emailWe use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you.This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding.
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