New Voice Message Scam (Aug) Beware And Stay Alert! >> The guide shares details about the new Flubot text scam targeting random mobile users and the common solutions.
A scam afflicts flooded Australia, with numbers increasing daily. So what should be done about it?
The new text message scam called “Flubot” is sending scam text messages to random mobile phones as the users are waiting eagerly for the update on vaccination appointments and COVID-19 tests.
The voicemail or text scam reads, “Visit (link) before it gets deleted automatically.” The cybersecurity expert, Darren Pauli, said that the scam text targets random users to install malicious applications or hack the recipient’s personal information.
The New Voice Message Scam was first reported on 4th August 2021 by many recipients. Let us see how to prevent the scam text.
What is the New Voicemail Message Scam?
The New Voicemail Message Scam is circulating in Australia, bothering many people waiting for updates on COVID-19 tests and vaccinations. Residents are warned about the bizarre “Flubot” text message scam used by scammers in the attempt to install suspicious software on mobile phones.
The text scam urges the recipients to click a link so that malicious software can be installed. It says that the recipient has a missed call, and to listen to the voice message, they have to follow a link.
What to Do If New Voice Message Scam Targets You?
There are certain ways to avoid receiving such scam messages. First, users can add their mobile number to the “Do Not Call” register to avoid receiving scam text messages.
Fraudsters are using random numbers which are not in a sequence. So, it is difficult to make out which number they are targeting. The process is automated and rapid. So, users are advised to follow the below protocols to avoid receiving scam text messages.
- Avoid clicking on a link you receive in the text message and delete the message immediately.
- Don’t call back at the number you received the New Voice Message Scam, as they are likely to be a scammer. Scammers are using devices that are not infected or spoofed.
- Users have to report the text message at the Australian Signals Directorate by visiting the website https://reportapp.cyber.gov.au/#/.
- If you have clicked the link and shared your personal details with the scammer, contact IDCARE or call 1800-595-160.
- If you have installed any software, approach the bank to ensure your account is secure.
Since text messages are becoming free, it is emerging as the famous choice to use and abuse by scammers.
Key Highlights of the Scam Text
- The cybersecurity professionals confirm that the fraudsters are bonkers and must not exploit or try to fool people during the pandemic with New Voice Message Scam.
- The scam text messages target random recipients and urge them to install malicious software to steal personal information and crucial details.
- Darren Pauli, the cybersecurity expert, said that recipients must add their number to the DND register and block the number while approaching the network providers.
Conclusion
Australian Competition Consumer Competition or ACCC said that the first case of the Flubot text scam was reported on 4th August, and after that, hundreds of cases were registered. The scam texts are sent multiple times on random mobile numbers. The cybersecurity experts said that the New Voice Message Scam emails and phone calls are difficult to block. So, users have to take a few measures to avoid receiving scam text messages.
Have you received such scam text messages? Then, please share the measures taken to avoid them in the comment section. Moreover, here are some tips to avoid and stay protected from online scams.