![Have you received an SMS about an unpaid electricity bill? This is a trap for your data and your money, ignore the message! [19.10.2022]](https://i0.wp.com/d-art.ppstatic.pl/kadry/k/r/1/93/4e/632832aaac44e_o_original.jpg?fit=%2C&ssl=1)
Recently, many people are receiving fake text messages whose senders pretend to be energy companies. The text of the message contains information about the arrears of bills and the planned disconnection of the power supply for this reason. Specialists point out that you should never click on the links attached to such messages, as this is an attempt at fraud and data theft.
This type of SMS with allegedly unpaid charges is an example of this smashing. It is one of the most popular data theft methods. It consists of sending an SMS to the potential victim with information aimed at arousing emotions (eg fear). In this case, the sender posing as an energy supplier writes about the need to urgently settle the alleged debt and encourages the recipient to take specific action. This is a click on a link that takes you to a page where you can pay the “overdue” payment.
However, using this option will launch malware that can steal information such as mobile banking login details or mobile device payment card details.
Fraudsters have long discovered that the effectiveness of their attacks often depends on the victims themselves and their vulnerability to manipulation. Fortinet experts point out that cybercriminals avidly use social engineering methods based on evoking specific emotions in the recipient, especially strong fear.
