MULTNOMAH COUNTY, Ore. – The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) is warning community members to be aware of “smishing” text messaging scams.  

According to cybersecurity experts, smishing scams utilize fake text messages to trick people into downloading malware, sharing sensitive information, or providing money to cybercriminals.  

These text messages may appear innocuous at first. Often, they look like a message sent to the wrong person. 

However, in reality, they are part of a widespread scam campaign. Scammers will send out thousands of these texts to random phone numbers, hoping someone will reply. 

If you respond, scammers can confirm that your phone number is active and that they’ve reached a real person.  

From there, they often continue messaging to build trust and legitimacy, ultimately seeking to steal personal or financial information. 

Recent examples of text messages sent to MCSO employees include: 

• “You have a package waiting for delivery, please click here to confirm receipt.”
• “Are you still at your workplace?”
• “Can I speak with you for a moment?”
• “Hi, we missed you at last night’s event.” 
• “Hello.”
• “We’d like to connect with you about your current role.”
• “Text me when you’re free, okay.”  

How to protect yourself: 

• Don’t reply to unknown or suspicious text messages. It’s not rude to protect yourself.
• Block and report unknown and suspicious phone numbers as junk or spam on your phone.
• Never share personal or financial information by text – especially with someone you don’t know.
• Never click on a link sent via text from a number or person you do not know.  

MCSO reminds everyone that staying alert and skeptical of unexpected messages is one of the best ways to protect your privacy and financial security. 

Several examples of smishing text messages are being provided. Media may use these graphics with credit to the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office.