Mobile devices have taken over computers in popularity due to the high range of functionalities they offer. They have become an integral part to our daily lives. The high level of convenience it provides us comes with its own risks. Hackers get more creative too in their methods to con victims, capture personal information and rob money. It’s important to be aware of the different types of mobile scams. Take a look at some of the most popular ones.
Short for SMS Phishing, occurs when a fraudster sends an SMS to an individual in an attempt to get them to divulge personal or financial information. The user is usually tricked into downloading a Trojan horse, virus, eavesdropping software or other malware onto his mobile device.
Those are increasingly being seen in the Cyber landscape and they are designed to steal online banking credentials. Currently, a pair of malware, Android/FakeBankDropper.A and Android/FakeBank.A are widely being spread and spoof legitimate apps.
This is when scammers use auto-dialers to target phone numbers across the world. These calls disconnect after one ring only, enough for the user to get a missed call notification. If you return the call, usually fraudsters keep you on the line and you get charged hefty fees.
Similar to one-ring scams but those frauds leave you voicemails that prompt you to return a call regarding a prize you allegedly have won. if you call back, you will be charged with significant fees.
This happens when a person gains access to your personal information and contracts a mobile phone account in your name. The criminal can amass a huge bill before a victim becomes aware of the con.
A genuine service in some countries that allow you to transfer your existing mobile number to a brand new SIM card of any size, even at different service providers. Unfortunately, fraudsters have identified a significant vulnerability in the way banks are using customers’ mobiles to identify them – and are using SIM-Swap as a technique that provide them with the ability to utilise a victim’s mobile phone number. This helps them in benefiting from all functionalities and services the phone would provide. This includes making phone calls, sending and receiving SMS. Such practices involve receiving login or transaction confirmation from big companies like MCB, Apple, Google and more. Such scams may allow fraudsters to take control of your mobile number.
