Hackers are increasingly using a sense of urgency to get around an Apple security measure and trick iMessage users into clicking phishing links, Bleeping Computer reports.
Typically, iMessage users can’t open links from an unknown sender until they add the sender to their contacts or respond to one of their messages. (Google was testing something similar for Android last year.) This complicates scammers’ efforts to steal your personal info from a malware-laden link, so cybercriminals are trying frantic texts about shipping issues and unpaid road tolls in hopes of getting a response.
In one of the examples shared by BleepingComputer, a message from the hacker said: “Please pay toll on January 6, 2025, to avoid excessive late fees and possible lawsuits over your bill, please pay in a timely manner. Thank you for your cooperation and enjoy your vacation.”
The odd syntax will likely deter most people from interacting. Cybersecurity experts recommend not responding to texts from unknown numbers—even with something like “stop.” This often just tells scammers that your number is active and could lead to more text spam. Plus, it activates those malicious links.
This warning text cited by BleepingComputer, for example, said: “Please reply Y, then exit the text message and open it again to activate the link, or copy the link to your Safari browser and open it.”
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If you have placed an online order, it’s unlikely the shop will text you. If you’re concerned, go directly to the store or confirmed shipping provider and look up your order status there.
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