Beware of scams involving fake text messages and calls.
Currently, scams involving fake text messages and calls are becoming increasingly common. With just a moment of carelessness, anyone can become a victim of cybercrime.
Recently, the US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) issued a warning about a new and sophisticated scam that is spreading, using malicious applications as a "weapon" to steal money from numerous victims.
"It all starts with an unwanted text message," the FBI said in a newly released warning. "And it ends with you losing all your savings."
The scammers don't need to break into the victim's computer or phone; the victim opens the door for them themselves through a "legitimate" application that they install themselves following instructions from someone posing as a technician, police officer, or bank employee.
The scam scenario is not new, but many people still fall for it.
Attackers typically approach users with a text message, email, or pop-up alerting them to unusual activity on their bank account. The message might state that your account is under attack, or that a suspicious transaction has just been made. A common thread is that they all urge you to immediately call a technical support number.
When you call, an “employee” will confirm the risk and ask you to install an app to “verify the device.” This app is usually remote access software that will give the scammer control of your device.
Next, you'll be "instructed" to check your bank account. But in reality, this action allows cybercriminals to see how much money you have, which bank it's in, and then proceed to transfer it to a "secure account," usually a cryptocurrency wallet under their control.
As a result, your account is emptied, and the real "hackers" are the people you just spoke to on the phone.
Fraudulent schemes are becoming increasingly sophisticated and widespread.
These types of scams are rapidly increasing, with many sophisticated variations. Some cases even show scammers impersonating the phone numbers of government agencies to increase credibility.
The FBI issued a warning: "If someone you don't know contacts you and asks you to install software, regardless of which agency they claim to work for, absolutely do not comply."
Currently, cybercriminals are impersonating agencies such as the police, power companies, or courts to carry out scams. As a result, you may receive messages notifying you of traffic violation fines, unpaid electricity bills, or even threats of arrest for involvement in a criminal network.
The messages often include links or phone numbers. When users call, they fall into the trap, being tricked into installing the app and "transferring money to avoid consequences."
Scams are no longer limited to apps; they now include physical contact tactics. In France and some other European countries, after obtaining victim information, fraudsters send someone to the victim's home, posing as a bank employee, to collect the "replacement" bank card.
A bank warned: "Criminals may ask you to cut your card but avoid damaging the chip. They can then still use the card. In some cases, they replace it with a fake card, leaving the victim completely unaware that their real card has been lost."
These "employees" even wear fake ID cards, bank uniforms, or professional name tags to create a sense of trust.
AI and deepfake: The new weapons of cybercriminals.
The FBI and banks are warning that criminals are using artificial intelligence (AI) to increase the authenticity of scams. Emails, documents, and even voices are being created using deepfake technology to convince victims.
For example, some cases have reported recipients receiving warning letters with red stamps and forms that look so "authentic" that even real bank employees would have difficulty distinguishing them at a glance.
This makes simply checking the sender's phone number or email address insufficient. Victims need to call back the official hotline number (found on the official website or app), and never hold the original call.
Bank of America emphasized: “We will never send emails, make phone calls, text messages, or visit homes to request personal or account information. Never click on links or download attachments from strangers.”
Similar messages are also being strongly communicated by major banks and technology companies such as Apple, Microsoft, and Google.
In today's digital world, where cybercriminals can impersonate anyone, from bank employees to government officials like police and court officials, your vigilance is your last and most important line of defense.
