Where are all the scam and spam messages coming from? Here’s what you need to know

Lately, you’ve probably been receiving spam or scam texts. This, even while telcos like Globe have ramped up security measures to block these messages. So, where are all these scam texts coming from, and how are they evading detection? Here’s what you need to know.

The Shift in Scam Tactics

Scammers are now bypassing traditional cellular networks by using internet-based messaging platforms. This shift began after telcos like Globe started blocking all person-to-person SMS with links in September 2022 and then restricted app-to-person SMS.

The crackdown on traditional SMS scams has pushed fraudsters to seek alternative methods and they’ve found ways to get around telco filters.

Internet-Based Messaging Platforms

With the increased security measures on SMS, scammers are now using internet-based messaging platforms to target mobile phone users. Through these apps, they evade cellular networks and even get to use foreign mobile numbers. These platforms include:

• Over the top (OTT) media services or chat apps
• Rich Communication Services (RCS) chats for Android users
• iMessage for Apple users

To be safe, never engage with or click links in chat messages with suspicious links, and ignore unsolicited calls from unknown numbers, both foreign and local.

Spoofing

Another sophisticated method scammers use is IMSI catchers, or fake cell towers. These portable devices mimic real cell towers to intercept mobile communications. Scammers can then send messages using spoofed sender IDs through the 2G network, making their messages look like official communications from reputable sources.

Spoofed messages often hook you with enticing offers and then instruct you to click links, which then direct you to malicious websites. This is how fraudsters collect your information to pry open your bank accounts or e-wallets.

This technique, known as spoofing, makes it extremely difficult for you to detect the fraud. To help its customers distinguish real customer SMS from spoofed messages, Globe no longer uses links in its official customer advisories.

Stay Informed and Vigilant

Anton Bonifacio, Globe’s Chief Information Security Officer and Chief AI Officer, emphasized that the fresh wave of spam and scam messages do not pass through the cellular network and hence are outside the scope of telco filters.

“Clever fraudsters continue to find ways to get around our security measures. As scammers adapt their tactics, it’s crucial for you to be extra vigilant and stay informed,” said Bonifacio.

Thus, you should always double-check the authenticity of messages, especially those with links, and report any suspicious texts to your mobile provider. You may also activate the spam filter in your device.

By staying vigilant, you can help combat the rise of scam texts and protect yourself from fraud.

To keep you safe from scammers, Globe proactively blocks spam and scam SMS and fraud-linked SIMs in its network. It also continues to invest in the latest technologies and forges strategic partnerships with relevant stakeholders to better protect customers from persistent threats.

If you receive any suspicious message, file a report via Globe’s #StopSpam portal.

To learn more about Globe, visit https://www.globe.com.ph/.