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Many Australian’s would have noticed a rise in SMS scams received to their devices. SMS scams are a prevalent method used by malicious individuals to deceive and defraud unsuspecting users.
These scams often involve deceptive and fraudulent messages, that sometimes look legitimate, to trick recipients into providing personal information, sending money or clicking on malicious links.
We know how important it is to keep you (and your loved ones) safe from scams and fraudulent activities. That's why we want to let you know that there is a new (and easy) way to do so.
How to report an SMS scam
By forwarding the scam message to 7226, you can help us contribute to protecting millions of Australians from falling victim to these fraudulent activities.
7226 spells out “SCAM” on a phone keypad.
Forwarding messages to 7226 allows us and our mobile partner Telstra to gather valuable information to continuously update our Scam Filter, ensuring that fewer scam messages make it through to your phone.
It's important to note that when you forward an SMS/MMS scam to 7226, you won't receive a reply message, and you won't be charged for sending the SMS.
For iPhone users:
1. Touch and hold the message bubble you want to forward, then tap “More.”
2. Select additional text messages, if desired.
3. Tap “Forward” and enter “7226” as the recipient.
4. Tap “Send.”
For Android users using the default Messages app:
1. Tap and hold the message you want to report.
2. Tap the three-dot menu button and select “Forward.”
3. Enter or select “7226” as the recipient and send the SMS.
How to identify an SMS scam
SMS or MMS scams are commonly used by malicious individuals or groups to deceive users and gain access to personal information or money. To stay vigilant, here are some warning signs to look out for:
- Unexpected messages: Be cautious of unsolicited SMS messages that request personal information, advertise promotional material, or ask you to click on a suspicious link. If in doubt, don’t respond or click on any links
- Premium-rate numbers: Be wary of SMS and MMS messages originating from numbers that start with '19XX' as they often incur premium charges. Additionally, watch out for numbers that begin with an international code other than +61 (Australia's country code).
- False prizes: Be sceptical of texts promising unexpected prizes that require you to send money to claim them. Legitimate promotions typically don't require a payment to receive a reward.
- Suspicious links: Avoid clicking on links in SMS messages, especially ones that prompt you to install software on your mobile device. Malicious software can compromise your personal information and device security.
Example of an SMS scam
To illustrate how SMS scams can appear, here's an example:
“Congratulations! You’re a winner! You have been chosen among 1,000 Australians to win a brand new iPad. Claim your prize at: http://ipad.wins/aus”
Your help matters
Although our industry actively blocks millions of scam messages monthly, it is impossible to catch every single one.
As technology continues to advance, it becomes crucial for everyone to stay vigilant and aware of the increasing prevalence of scam activity.
Each one of us plays a significant role in securing our personal and private data to prevent criminals from profiting from it.
By forwardingscam messages to 7226 (SCAM), you play a crucial role in helping us and Telstra to protect millions of Australians from potential harm.
These reported scamsassist us in identifying emerging scam techniques and threats, enabling our cybersecurity teams to take proactive measures to safeguard you and your family.
