Your phone may be getting scammed: Beware of "SMS phishing"

ImpermanentTherapist · 2025-11-22T04:04:23+00:00

Recently, there has been a text message phishing scam known as "smishing", which lures users into clicking phishing links under the guise of abnormal Binance and OKX accounts. The scam tactics include creating a sense of urgency, impersonating officials, and attaching phishing links. To prevent such scams, users should avoid clicking on unfamiliar links and verify information through official websites, regularly check account security, and use MFA and hardware wallets when necessary. If scammed, change passwords promptly and notify relevant authorities. Stay vigilant and protect your asset security.

ImpermanentTherapist

2025-11-22 04:04:23

Abstract generation in progress

Have you received strange text messages in the past couple of days saying that your Binance/OKX account is abnormal? Asking you to click a link to verify? Sound the alarm — this is “smishing” (SMS phishing), which is currently the most vicious scam targeting people in the crypto world.

How to recognize this thing?

The scammer uses three tricks:

Create Urgency: “Account frozen, verify immediately!” (create panic)
Impersonating Official: Cloning exchange/wallet names and logos
Fishing link: Clicking into it is a fake website, entering your password/private key will lead to disaster.

The real tricks include:

Fake security warning → Luring you to enter 2FA code and login credentials
Fake KYC verification → Scam you into uploading ID card + personal information
Fake customer service → asks you to “confirm account” and then transfer funds
Fake Prize → “You won 0.2BTC, enter your wallet key to claim”

Why is it so easy to fall for it?

Because it hits three psychological points: trust + urgency + greed. The text message looks formal, with official wording, and urges you to “act immediately”, leaving the brain no time to react before clicking.

How to protect yourself?

Core Principle: Legitimate institutions will never ask you for your password, private key, or seed phrase via SMS/phone.

Practical suggestions:

❌ Don't click on unfamiliar links. If you have questions, verify directly on the official website or App.
✅ Enable MFA + passkey (supported by platforms like Gate, etc.)
✅ Use a hardware wallet to store large amounts of coins
✅ Regularly check account transaction records, and change your password immediately if you find any anomalies.
✅ Install antivirus software like Norton/Kaspersky

What if you get scammed?

Change password immediately + Enable 2FA
Notify the official customer service of the exchange/wallet provider
Freeze personal credit (to prevent identity theft and account opening)
Report to the local cybersecurity department

Remember: in the world of Web3, you are your own bank. The more cautious you are, the less risk you have of being cut.

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