WASHINGTON (WUSA) -- Let's say you get a text message that reads something like "Congratulations, you just won a $1,000 Target gift card." Don't believe it -- it's smishing.
Smish texts may ask for credit card or other private information. They usually appear to come from a legitimate source. Gift certificates to Best Buy, Walmart, Target are just some of the more common scams these days. But, don't be fooled by these notifications. The purpose of smish texts is to steal your identity. Often times clicking on the link you receive can even install a virus on your cell phone. A thief can actually take over your cell phone remotely, get into your bank account app potentially and monitor sounds around you.
The Better Business Bureau has issued some warnings about this new kind of scam.
1. Do not reply. Immediately delete any text that you think might be a scam. If the text includes a phone number or link, do not call or click.
2. Do not give up your personal information, like your home address or bank account number.
3. Report it. Call your service provider and have them block the number that the text came from.
If you think you have been a victim of smishing, contact the Better Business Bureau and they can help you file a complaint.