Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) is urging customers to exercise caution and avoid clicking on links embedded in unsolicited text messages, warning that these could lead to phishing websites designed to steal personal information. The telecom company also highlighted the growing threat posed by criminals using “fake cell towers” to bypass network defenses and target users with fraudulent messages.
In a statement, Smart vice president and head of regulatory affairs Roy Ibay emphasized the importance of staying vigilant against these evolving threats. “We remind our customers that there is no need to re-register their Smart or TNT SIM cards if they have already done so successfully. Additionally, we advise the public to be extra cautious of any SMS containing a clickable link. Telecom providers, including Smart, are not authorized to send out messages with such links,” Ibay said.
The latest warning follows increasing concerns over the rise of SMShing scams, where fraudsters send alarming messages that appear to be from legitimate sources, often impersonating government agencies or telecom companies. These messages may include fake warnings or urgent calls to action, such as prompting users to re-register their SIM cards or face service disruptions.
According to Smart, these malicious actors are now using fake cell towers to push text messages directly to consumers’ phones. These towers are capable of masking their origin, making it harder for authorities to trace the source of the attack. The fake towers allow scammers to bypass traditional network safeguards, thereby increasing the likelihood of the message reaching its target.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has also raised alarms about text-based fraud as the holiday season approaches, urging the public to remain vigilant against scams that may become more prevalent during this time.
In response, Smart has pledged to work closely with the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) to curb the use of fake cell towers. The company is also collaborating with the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) to help identify and apprehend those behind these scams, supporting ongoing investigations and prosecutions.
With digital threats becoming more sophisticated, Smart’s advisory serves as a timely reminder to consumers to stay cautious and report any suspicious activity. “Public awareness is key in preventing these types of fraud,” Ibay said.
