Smart Communications Inc. has issued a warning to its customers about a phishing scam targeting mobile users, where fraudsters pose as legitimate entities offering rewards points. The scam aims to deceive users into clicking on links to redeem points that are purportedly tied to their accounts.
According to a statement from Roy Ibay, Vice President and Head of Regulatory Affairs at Smart, these phishing messages often appear to come from trusted sources, such as mobile carriers. They are delivered through fraudulent cellular towers, which are used to push scam messages directly to users’ mobile devices.
The messages in question promise rewards under the guise of “Smart points,” enticing users to click on a link to redeem the offer before it expires. However, Smart clarified that it does not send clickable links in its official communications, whether in person-to-person messages or promotional messages.
Ibay further explained that the phishing website associated with the scam has been blocked, and Smart has confirmed that no such promotion exists. He emphasized that the legitimate domain for Smart Communications is https://smart.com.ph.
In addition to this warning, Smart also alerted its customers about a surge in account hijacking incidents via a popular instant messaging platform. The telecom provider urged users to exercise caution when receiving suspicious links through messaging apps. According to Smart’s investigation, these links redirect users to fake login pages designed to capture their credentials.
To combat such threats, Smart has strengthened its network defenses. In 2024 alone, the company blocked over 2.3 billion fraudulent text messages and identified more than 1 million mobile numbers involved in suspicious activities.
Smart advises users to remain vigilant and adopt preventive measures to protect themselves from scams. Customers are urged not to respond to unverified text messages, and to avoid clicking on any links sent from unknown or suspicious sources. It is also recommended to disregard offers that seem “too good to be true,” such as winning contests they did not enter, and to never share personal details or payment information to claim supposed prizes.
For further protection, Smart encourages its customers to report any suspicious messages through its HuliScam portal at https://smart.com.ph/HuliScam. Subscribers can submit details about the scam, such as the sender’s phone number or identifier, message content, date received, and location, which allows Smart to promptly block fraudulent SIM cards after verification.
By taking these precautions and remaining aware of potential scams, Smart aims to safeguard its users from fraudulent activities and protect their personal information.
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