Scammers are getting better, this time using fake cell towers to bypass traditional network security to bombard you with fake text messages.
Smart Communications and the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) are working together to fight this growing threat. Smart has already deployed firewalls that filter out malicious SMS messages.
However, criminals have moved to using fake cell towers (to mimic legitimate ones) to directly connect to subscribers’ devices. These fake towers allow scammers to capture mobile numbers and send phishing messages designed to steal personal information.
To address this issue, Smart and the NTC are actively collaborating. Their efforts include working with the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) to investigate, apprehend, and prosecute those involved in these illegal activities.
Smart is also urging its subscribers to play a part in fighting text scams. Subscribers can report suspicious messages through the HULISCAM portal (https://smart.com.ph/huliscam), providing details like the sender’s information, message content, and date received. Verified reports will lead to the prompt blocking of fraudulent SIM numbers.
Subscribers can also report scams through Smart’s social media channels (Smart Communications on Facebook and @SmartCares on Twitter) or by calling the hotline *888.
