Text message received on a mobile phone
FraudSMART is advising consumers to be aware of an on-going cybercrime campaign in which fraudsters try to trick victims into installing malware on their phone.
Android malware is being distributed using a text message based scam. Criminals send a SMSs from legitimate numbers and attempt to trick recipients (victims) into following a link and installing malware onto their phone.
If installed, this malware will allow criminals to access banking details, personal information, contacts and information stored on or accessible through the victim’s mobile device.
SMSs relating to this malware and scam are sent to both iPhones and Android phones, and typically claim to notify the recipient of a number of missed calls, MMSs, impending parcel delivery or new voice-mails.
If you are unsure of the legitimacy any SMS seeming to originate from a known brand or company, ignore it and contact that company or service directly using the contact details provided on their website.
If you think you have responded to a scam text message, contact your bank immediately.
FraudSMART strongly encourages the public to help protect against malware by ensuring all software is up to date. Android users in particular are advised to avail of the protection offered by Google Play Protect.
If you think your device has been infected, please contact your Mobile Network Operator for further instructions and advice.
If you think any of your account details or payment card details have been compromised, please contact St. Colman’s Credit Union immediately using our number – 094-9371159
You can find further information from the National Cyber Security Centre’s Flubot advisory.