Still receiving scam texts? Here's what you need to know
Globe shared some pointers as scammers continue with their illegal schemes.
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Where do scam messages come from?
As spam or scam texts continue to harm users, telcos have made efforts to ramp up security measures to block these messages. So, where are all these scam texts coming from, and how are they evading detection?
Scammers are now bypassing traditional cellular networks by using internet-based messaging platforms. This shift began after telcos started blocking all person-to-person SMS with links in September 2022 and then restricted app-to-person SMS, Globe said in a statement.
The crackdown on traditional SMS scams has pushed fraudsters to seek alternative methods and they’ve found ways to get around telco filters. They are now using internet-based messaging platforms to target mobile phone users. Through these apps, they evade cellular networks and even get to use foreign mobile numbers.
These platforms include:
- Over-the-top (OTT) media services or chat apps
- Rich Communication Services (RCS) chats for Android users
- iMessage for Apple users
To be safe, Globe reminds users to never engage with or click links in chat messages with suspicious links, and ignore unsolicited calls from unknown numbers, both foreign and local.
Another method scammers use is IMSI catchers or fake cell towers. These portable devices mimic real cell towers to intercept mobile communications. Scammers can then send messages using spoofed sender IDs through the 2G network, making their messages look like official communications from reputable sources.
Spoofed messages often hook receivers with enticing offers and then instruct them to click links, which then direct users to malicious websites. This is how fraudsters collect information to access things like bank accounts or e-wallets.
This technique makes it extremely difficult to detect fraud. To help its customers distinguish real customer SMS from spoofed messages, Globe said it no longer uses links in its official customer advisories.
Clever fraudsters continue to find ways to get around our security measures. As scammers adapt their tactics, it's crucial for you to be extra vigilant and stay informed, said Anton Bonifacio, Globe's chief information security officer and chief AI officer.
He urged users to always double-check the authenticity of messages, especially those with links, and report any suspicious texts to their mobile provider. They may also activate the spam filter on their device.
Meanwhile, Globe said it continues to roll out interventions to block spam and scam SMS and fraud-linked SIMs in its network. It also invests in the latest technologies and taps partnered to better protect customers from persistent threats.
If you receive any suspicious message, file a report via Globe's #StopSpam portal, the telco said.
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