Recently, a new type of online fraud has attracted the attention of the majority of mobile phone users. This kind of fraud cleverly takes advantage of the negligence of mobile phone users, by sending text messages with specific content, inducing users to carry out a series of operations, and eventually causing the funds to be "transferred away". According to incomplete statistics, more than 30 people have been deceived and suffered economic losses. In this article, we'll break down how this scam works and provide tips to help you avoid becoming the next victim.
1. The content of fraudulent text messages is revealed
This scam text message usually contains some nervous or curious words, such as "account abnormal", "urgent notification", "security verification", etc. The content of the text message often claims that there is a security issue in the user's bank card, Alipay, WeChat or other accounts, and the user needs to take immediate steps to verify or deal with it. To add credibility, scam SMS messages are also sent using what appears to be an official phone number or SMS number, impersonating the name of an official agency, such as a bank, payment platform, or police authority.
2. Analysis of fraud methods and processes
1. Send scam text messages: Fraudsters will first send scam text messages widely, taking advantage of the user's curiosity and nervousness to induce the user to click on the link in the text message or call the specified phone number.
2. Direct users to download malware: When users click on a link, they are directed to a website or download page that appears to be legitimate. Here, the scammers trick users into downloading and installing a piece of malware. This software is often disguised as antivirus, security plug-ins, or system updaters to gain the user's trust.
3. Stealing user information: Once the malware is successfully installed, fraudsters can steal users' personal information, such as bank card numbers, passwords, verification codes, etc., through the software. At the same time, the software also monitors the user's mobile phone operation in order to intercept and tamper at critical moments.
4. Transferring funds: After obtaining the user's sensitive information, the fraudster will use the information to log in to the user's bank account, payment platforms such as Alipay or WeChat, and make transfers or purchases. In order to hide the eye, fraudsters usually choose the method of transferring multiple amounts in small amounts to avoid attracting the attention of users.
3. How to prevent such scams
1. Be vigilant: Be vigilant when confronted with unfamiliar text messages and links. Do not click on unknown links or download software from unknown sources to avoid being tricked.
2. Verify the source of the information: When receiving a text message involving sensitive information such as account security, fund transfers, etc., carefully check the source of the information. You can verify by calling the official customer service number, logging in to the official website, or using the official APP.
3. Protect your personal information: In your daily life, you should pay attention to protecting your personal information. Do not disclose sensitive information such as bank card numbers, passwords, and verification codes to others, and do not use public Wi-Fi in public places for sensitive operations.
4. Install security software: Installing a reliable security software on your phone can help you identify and block threats such as malware and viruses. At the same time, the security software can also monitor the operation of the mobile phone, detect abnormal situations in time and remind them.
5. Timely report to the police: If you are unfortunate enough to be recruited or find a suspicious situation, you should immediately report to the police and contact the relevant authorities for processing. At the same time, relevant evidence should be kept for follow-up investigation and rights protection.
In short, in the face of this new type of online fraud, we must remain highly vigilant and cautious. By strengthening self-awareness, verifying the source of information, protecting personal information, installing security software, and reporting to the police, you can effectively avoid becoming the next target of fraudsters. Let's take action together to keep cyber security and personal property safe.