Google has recently issued a critical warning to smartphone users regarding the necessity of disabling a specific feature to mitigate the risk of attacks from malicious text messages. This alert stems from the disturbing methods used by cybercriminals capable of sending harmful SMS messages directly to devices, bypassing traditional mobile networks. The primary technique employed in these attacks involves tools known as SMS Blasters.
These devices are designed to trick mobile phones into connecting directly to an attacker’s radio device, which masquerades as a legitimate network access point. By doing so, the criminals can target specific geographic areas, often focusing on affluent neighborhoods without needing a list of phone numbers. Recently, a perpetrator in the U.K. was apprehended for using an SMS Blaster, prompting law enforcement to caution users about such threats.
These criminals aim to circumvent existing fraud prevention measures to steal personal and financial information. Importantly, since these texts aren’t routed through traditional carrier networks, anti-spam features offered by providers become ineffective. To safeguard against these threats, Google recommends disabling 2G connectivity on smartphones.
2G is notably less secure than its successors, which makes it an easy target for exploitation. For Android 16 users, 2G is disabled by default when the Advanced Protection Mode is turned on, which also includes several features designed to enhance device security. For iPhone users, disabling 2G requires activating Apple’s Lockdown Mode, which limits device functionality to protect users at risk.
In general, consumers should remain vigilant for red flags of scams, such as unexpected messages from unknown sources, poor grammar, and irrelevant content. Ultimately, staying informed and proactive in managing device settings can greatly contribute to preventing these types of cyber attacks.