Fraud Watch - July 2025
Smishing Scams on the Rise: What You Need to Know
Scammers are getting smarter—and sneakier. One of the fastest-growing fraud trends in 2025 is smishing, or SMS phishing: fraudulent text messages designed to trick you into giving up sensitive information like passwords, account numbers, or Social Security numbers.
These scams are becoming more convincing, using spoofed numbers, real company logos, and urgent language to push you into clicking a link or replying without thinking. The goal? To steal your identity, access your financial accounts, or install malware on your phone.
🚨 Common Smishing Scams in 2025
Here are some of the most frequent smishing texts reported by consumers this year:
Fake Bank Alerts
“Serve Credit Union Alert: Your account is locked. Tap here to verify your identity: [suspicious link]”Delivery Scams
“Your USPS package is being held. Reschedule delivery here: [fake site link]”Government Impersonation
“You’re eligible for a new tax refund. Complete the claim now: [phishing link]”Zelle® or Venmo Scams
“A $850 payment was attempted. If this wasn't you, tap here to cancel.”Prize or Gift Card Offers
“You’ve won a $100 Target gift card. Claim now before it expires!”
These messages often use urgent or threatening language to get you to act without thinking—don’t fall for it.
🔒 How to Avoid Smishing Scams
To protect yourself from these evolving threats, follow these simple but powerful steps:
Don’t click links in unexpected or unfamiliar messages—even if it looks like it’s from a company you know.
Never reply with personal info, such as your bank login, PIN, or Social Security number.
Verify before acting: Contact the business directly using a known phone number or website—not the one provided in the message.
Report and delete suspicious texts immediately.
Enable account alerts with Serve Credit Union to catch any unauthorized activity early.
📣 Final Thoughts
Smishing is successful because it plays on our trust and urgency—but a few seconds of caution can save you from major financial damage. Stay alert, talk to friends and family about current scams, and always think before you tap.
Steps with Serve CU to protect yourself against Fraud:
Login to Online Banking to:
Monitor transactions
Enable Notifications
Register your device
Download the Serve Credit Union Mobile App to do all of the above, on the go!
Download the Serve CU Cards App to:
Lock/Unlock cards
Report Lost/Stolen
Enable Transaction Alerts
Monitor transactions