Federal Trade Commission Warns Against Rising Text Scams Targeting Smartphone Users
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has issued a warning to smartphone users about a surge in text scams that are becoming increasingly sophisticated. These scams often begin with a text message containing a QR code, purportedly requiring the recipient to pay a fine for a traffic violation to avoid court proceedings. The FTC advises recipients not to respond or scan the QR code, and to verify the legitimacy of such messages through official court websites or phone numbers. Additionally, the FTC has highlighted a new scam involving fake job offers, where scammers pose as recruiters to steal money. The agency emphasizes the importance of not engaging with these messages, regardless of how professional they may appear.