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Tuesday, February 8, 2011

New Scam Targets Victims Through Text Messages


By Stacy Whelchel
There's a new word in the vocabulary used to identity security risks that pose threats in our high tech world. This time "smishing" is having an impact on those who favor text messaging.  

Basically, instead of a phishing scam distributed through emails, smishing hoaxes are sent through SMS or text service messages received on cell phones. The con is consistent though; a trusted sender, such Text message phone as a bank, relays a text communicating that an urgent matter requires the recipient to verify account information and passwords through a toll-free phone call with a voice response system or by a return text message.  
With emails as well as text messages, caution is always advised especially when confidential information is requested. A direct phone call to a bank or the alleged sender is usually an appropriate and safe response to any suspect written inquiry.
Identity theft crimes will most likely continue to evolve. This is why the valuable benefits of the Life Events Legal PlanSM and Identity Theft ShieldSM have more meaning now than ever. The message is clear; everyone needs Pre-Paid Legal.

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