Legitimate companies use software for text reminders, thus if you don't have the name/number stored in your phone, you know who the reminder is from; such as hospital, dentist appointments or bank message for codes and new payment creations.

Fraudsters use the same software to send fake messages with links demanding a small some of money.

Why do they work

Because they are so vague, the circumstances can apply to almost anybody.

The scammers also alter the message for any current situation in the news.

Even a small number of hits from victims, yields big bucks for the scammers.

Adapting the scam - example
When a major even hits the news, scammers use it to cash in on people under pressure.

When covid hit and we went into lockdown, thousands of holiday's got cancelled and travellers wanted/needed their money back.

Travel companies already have your card details from when you booked your trip, so they don't need to ask for them to issue a refund.

Scammers sent messages, asking for your bank card details so they can give you a refund. Would be victims would be enter their card details.

RESULTS

• They take money from your bank.
• They clone your car and sell your details.
• They call back pretending to be from your bank, informing you your account is under attack --> this leads onto the safe account scam.

GOLDEN RULES:

1. NEVER EVER click on ANY link in ANY message.
2. NEVER trust the source of any text messages.