Story perspectives

Smishing Scams Soar 604%: Public Warned to Stay Vigilant

3/17/2025

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Summary

Story summary

State officials alert the public about "smishing" scams impersonating toll collection agencies.
Scammers demand sensitive financial details, often threatening fines for unpaid tolls.
Reports show a staggering 604% rise in these scams since early 2025, impacting 10 U.S. states and Ontario.
Authorities recommend deleting suspicious texts and reporting them to the FBI.
Cybersecurity experts note awkward language as a key sign of scams.

History

Historical Context

"Smishing" scams have surged, echoing the rise of internet fraud since its inception in the mid-1990s. Initially, fraudsters exploited new e-commerce platforms, using tactics like phishing to steal personal information. By 2003, phishing attacks against banks emerged. Today, scams like smishing reflect the evolution of cybercrime, highlighting ongoing vulnerabilities in digital communication and the need for robust consumer awareness and protection measures.

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Story summary

State officials alert the public about "smishing" scams impersonating toll collection agencies.
Scammers demand sensitive financial details, often threatening fines for unpaid tolls.
Reports show a staggering 604% rise in these scams since early 2025, impacting 10 U.S. states and Ontario.
Authorities recommend deleting suspicious texts and reporting them to the FBI.
Cybersecurity experts note awkward language as a key sign of scams.

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