I'm getting scam messages on my phone, what should I do?

If you are getting messages from higher ups asking you to get iTunes cards or similar it's a scam. It's best just to ignore/report/block/delete and not engage with the imposter. Keep in mind, a high-level executive will NEVER send a text to your personal number to perform a task. Unfortunately, there isn’t much IT can do to prevent these impersonation attacks via text so please see the below tips on what you can do to prevent SMS spoofing:

• Carefully analyze sender details. Many spoofed messages contain grammatical errors or subtle changes in Sender Name and/or Number. Watch out for the small things before replying to any text message, especially if something seems off, like if the message contains an unusual request from someone you know or an institution you are in contact with.

• Never respond to imperative messages. Scammers usually want you to react on the spot because you might uncover their sham if you take your time. Whenever you receive a text that includes a sense of urgency, you should be suspicious.

How To Report Spam Text Messages

If you get an unwanted text message, there are three ways to report it:

• Report it on the messaging app you use. Look for the option to report junk or spam.
• Copy the message and forward it to 7726 (SPAM).
• Report it to the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.