Scammers Use Fake Cell Towers to Send Thousands of Texts

Scammers Use Fake Cell Towers to Send Thousands of Texts
Source: futurism.com

Scammers Are Now Driving Around With Fake Cell Towers That Blast 100,000 Texts Per Hour

Scammers have adopted a new high-tech method to target mobile users by using fake cell towers, also known as “IMSI catchers” or “stingrays.” These devices can mimic legitimate cell towers and send up to 100,000 text messages per hour to nearby phones. Typically installed on vehicles, these rogue towers are driven around urban areas to reach a wide audience, often for fraud or phishing purposes. Victims may receive spam messages, malicious links, or scam offers, which can lead to stolen personal information or financial loss. Experts warn that these attacks are difficult to trace and require vigilance from users. Mobile carriers are investigating methods to detect and shut down such rogue towers, while cybersecurity professionals advise avoiding clicking unknown links and regularly updating devices to reduce risks. Awareness is key to staying protected from this growing threat.

The Key points

  • Scammers use fake cell towers to send mass texts.
  • Devices can blast up to 100,000 messages per hour.
  • Known as IMSI catchers or stingrays.
  • Typically mounted on moving vehicles for wider coverage.
  • Messages often contain phishing links or scam offers.
  • Can lead to stolen personal or financial data.
  • Difficult for authorities to track and block.
  • Mobile carriers are working on detection methods.
  • Users should avoid clicking unknown links in texts.
  • Keeping devices updated reduces vulnerability to attacks.
Read full Story »

Disclaimer: This preview includes title, image, and description automatically sourced from the original website (futurism.com) using publicly available metadata / OG tags. All rights, including copyright and content ownership, remain with the original publisher. If you are the content owner and wish to request removal, please contact us from your official email to no_reply@newspaperhunt.com.