The PSMS (Premium Short Message Service) Industry is booming. While there are more good players than bad, it is vital to make sure you protect yourself from the growing number of scams and fraud online.
Utilizing the 6 Tips below will help you avoid becoming a victim of a PSMS Scam:
1. Determine Relevancy
Determining relevancy is the most important tip of all. You should always ask yourself, “Why are they asking for my phone number?” If the answer isn’t obvious, proceed with caution. For example, if you are just trying to download a recipe, is your phone number really that important? Make sure the site offers full disclosure with what they do with your info. It is up to you to determine the relevancy of their request. Mobile Applications In-app fraud is a growing trend in the industry. All apps are required to disclose the permissions they use before downloading. Review these carefully. For example, if you are downloading an app to play Solitaire, is there a need for “Send SMS permissions”? Once you accept the permissions, the app could start sending SMS messages on your behalf which can ultimately cost you money.
2. Only Submit Phone # to Trustworthy Sites or Companies
You wouldn’t give out your phone number to someone you don’t trust in person, so you probably shouldn’t do it online either. Do your research before signing up for anything. Just because a site “looks” like a trusted site doesn’t actually mean it is. Fraudulent players disguise their sites behind facades of “Facebook”, “YouTube”, etc.
3. Look for Fine Print and Terms & Conditions
When deciding on whether or not you should give out personal information online, always review the site first. All PSMS offer pages are required to visibly show the price and terms of conditions right by where you hit submit. Most do this. However, fraudulent players deceptively place these terms in inconspicuous spots on their website in hopes you miss them.
4. Examine Text Message Sent to Phone After Opting In
Once you have entered your phone number for a PSMS offer, you should receive a text message from the company behind the content. This text message needs to include the costs and conditions of the service, how to cancel the service and where to find the terms and conditions (website and/or toll free number). If any of this is missing, contact your phone company. All PSMS are required to have a Double Opt-in. This means after you first enter your phone number, you must verify agreement a second time by either responding yes or entering a PIN.
5. Stay Alert around the Holidays and Major Events
There is always an increase in malicious behavior around the holidays and major events. Criminals see this as a time when people are vulnerable. Watch the New Years Eve Ball drop live- enter your phone number for verification. Michael Jackson is dead- enter your phone number to learn what really happened. These are real examples of how you can be easily defrauded.
6. Review your Phone Bill Every Month
Do you look at your phone bill every month? If you are in the majority, the answer is no. However, this easy step can literally save you hundreds of dollars if you have been scammed. Most people who are victims of a PSMS scam don’t realize it until months down the road; after they have already paid their phone bill. A quick glance of your phone bill each month will help stop this early. If you feel you have been wrongfully charged, call your phone provider immediately. Please report any violations of PSMS scams to Aegis Mobile by filling out the form on the site.
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