FBI issues nationwide warning to iPhone users about malicious text message — delete before it's too late
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The FBI has sent out a warning to iPhone users all over the US about a new scam that could be very harmful. The message looks like it came from the DMV and is official, but don't be fooled. Authorities warn that clicking the link could severely compromise your phone's security.Millions of Americans are being cautioned by the FBI to be cautious of a seemingly harmless text message that is circulating and to delete it right away if they receive it.Although text scams have long been a problem for Americans, Forbes reports that attacks on iPhone and Android users increased by more than 700% in just one month.Tennessee, New York, California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Texas, Washington, DC and other states are affected by these text scams.The scammers use the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) of various states to trick unwary iPhone users into falling victim to their schemes.The federal authorities claim that the latest scam is particularly sophisticated.The FBI has told iPhone users about a phishing scam that looks like DMV texts that threaten fines or the loss of their license. These messages contain malicious links designed to steal your personal information.The messages, which warn that failure to pay an unpaid toll or fine could result in the loss of driving privileges or even jail time, appear to be authentic. People are instructed to reply to the message and then click on the link that is included in the text.However, authorities advise users to immediately remove the text instead of clicking the link. The FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center is requesting that anyone who received one of these texts report it.According to a statement from FBI Tennessee Supervisory Special Agent David Palmer, these texts have the potential to "install malware on your phone, which can then infiltrate and steal information from your device or collect your payment information."Palmer added that you should generally be cautious and avoid clicking on links that come from unknown numbers.'These scammers bombard phones with texts, hoping to fool unsuspecting people into giving up their personal information,' said New York State DMV Commissioner Mark J. F. Schroeder. The DMV will never text you for private information.These scam texts direct users to phishing websites that are intended to steal credit card information and make unauthorized charges, as per a report.Don't click on any links. As soon as possible, delete the message and report it to the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center.By clicking on the link, you run the risk of infecting your phone with malware and having private data like passwords or credit card numbers stolen. It is meant to look official, which is why so many people are duped by it.
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