Scammers send text messages pretending to be from legitimate organizations such as banks, government agencies, or popular services like social media platforms or delivery services.

The messages often create a sense of urgency or present a threat to prompt recipients to take immediate action. For example, they may claim that there's been suspicious activity on the recipient's account or that a payment is overdue.

The SMS usually contains links to fake websites or prompts recipients to call a phone number provided in the message. These links or numbers lead to phishing websites or call centers where scammers attempt to extract sensitive information.

If the SMS contains a link, it may lead to a fake login page designed to mimic the legitimate website of the organization being impersonated. When users enter their credentials on these fake pages, the information is captured by the attackers.

In some cases, clicking on links in SMS phishing messages can lead to the installation of malware on the recipient's device, compromising its security and allowing attackers to steal additional information.

Recipients receive text messages claiming to be from their bank, informing them of a security issue with their account and directing them to click on a link to resolve the issue. The link leads to a fake website where recipients are asked to enter their login credentials, which are then captured by the attackers.

Scammers send text messages claiming to be from a delivery service, stating that a package delivery is pending and requesting recipients to click on a link for more details. The link leads to a phishing website where recipients may be asked to provide personal information or pay a fee to reschedule the delivery.

Fraudulent text messages purporting to be from government agencies like the IRS or immigration services may inform recipients of an issue with their taxes or immigration status, urging them to take immediate action by clicking on a link or calling a provided number.

Truecaller is the leading Caller ID and spam-blocking app globally. It has an SMS fraud detection system that can actually flag suspicious messages or smishing attacks as ‘likely fraudulent’. It is the perfect shield to have for safe daily communication!

Be cautious of unsolicited text messages, especially those that create a sense of urgency or request sensitive information.

If you receive a suspicious text message claiming to be from a legitimate organization, verify its authenticity by contacting the organization directly using trusted contact information.

Avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown or untrusted sources in text messages.

Install and regularly update security software on your devices to detect and block phishing attempts.

If you receive a suspicious text message, report it to the appropriate authorities or organizations, such as your mobile carrier, banking institutions or, as well as in Truecaller.

If you are in the United States, these could be some agencies you could reach out to:

1. Federal Trade Commission (FTC): You can file a complaint with the FTC online at https://www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov/ 
2. Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3): You can file a complaint with the IC3 at https://www.ic3.gov/ 

If you are in India, these could be agencies you could reach out to:

1. Cyber Crime Portal https://cybercrime.gov.in
2. Sanchar Saathi Suspected Fraud Communication Reporting https://sancharsaathi.gov.in/sfc/
3. Cyber Frauds Helpline - Toll-free number 1930 https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1814120