How to Keep Your Text Messages Secure in an Era of Rising Cyber Threats

Text messaging has become an integral part of modern communication, from personal chats to sharing sensitive information. However, the FBI recently warned of increasing cyber threats targeting text messaging systems. This alarming trend highlights the need to secure our messages and protect sensitive data.

Here’s what you need to know and how you can safeguard your messages.

Why Text Messages Are a Target

Text messages, especially SMS (Short Message Service), are inherently insecure. Cybercriminals exploit these vulnerabilities for several reasons:

• Wide Use: SMS is universal, making it a lucrative target for hackers.
• Lack of Encryption: Standard SMS messages are not end-to-end encrypted, leaving them open to interception.
• Phishing Opportunities: Attackers use text messages for phishing campaigns (known as “smishing”) to steal credentials or install malware.
• Authentication Exploits: Many services use SMS for two-factor authentication (2FA), which attackers can intercept via SIM-swapping or network vulnerabilities.

The FBI has highlighted that state-sponsored actors, have infiltrate our US cell phone carrier networks and systems, and are monitoring and stealing sensitive data while conducting surveillance activities.  In point of fact, this FBI edict suggested Americans should use secure encrypted messaging aps such as Signal and WhatsApp.  (Please see those links for more info on their security measures.)

Steps to Secure Your Text Messages

While no system is entirely foolproof, taking proactive steps can significantly reduce your risk.

1. Use End-to-End Encrypted Messaging Apps – Switch to apps like Signal, WhatsApp, or iMessage that encrypt your messages end-to-end. This ensures that only you and the intended recipient can read the messages.
   • Why it matters: Encrypted messages are unreadable even if intercepted.
   • Pro tip: Avoid using apps that don’t explicitly advertise end-to-end encryption.
2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) on Messaging Apps – Enable 2FA to add an extra layer of security to your messaging apps.  Use Biometrics on your mobile for added security and ease of use.
   • Why it matters: Even with stolen account credentials, hackers will need the second factor to log in as you.
   • Pro tip: Use Authenticator apps or physical tokens and never use SMS 2FA given the recent FBI revelations..
3. Be Wary of Phishing Messages – Delete messages seeking sensitive data and never clicking on suspicious links.
   • Why it matters: Smishing attacks often impersonate trusted entities to steal your data or compromise your device
   • Pro tip: Enable Lockdown mode on iPhones to boost security enormously.  Just know that some functionality will be lost if you do so.
4. Avoid Sharing Sensitive Information via Text – Refrain from sending personal details, passwords, or financial information through text messages.
   • Why it matters: Once intercepted, this data can be misused or sold online.
   • Pro tip: Use secure file-sharing or encrypted email services for sensitive data.
5. Keep Your Phone Software Updated – Apply updates quickly patch vulnerabilities hackers exploit to intercept messages or access your devices.
   • Why it matters: Outdated software is a goldmine for cybercriminals.
   • Pro tip: Enable automatic updates to ensure your phone is always up-to-date.
6. Be Mindful of Public Wi-Fi – Avoid sending messages containing sensitive data over public Wi-Fi networks.
   • Why it matters: Hackers can intercept unencrypted messages sent via public Wi-Fi.
   • Pro tip: Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) for secure communication on public networks.
7. Beware of SIM-Swapping Scams – SIM-swapping is a technique where attackers trick your mobile carrier into transferring your phone number to their device.
   • Why it matters: This allows them to intercept SMS messages, including 2FA codes.
   • Pro tip: Set up a PIN or password with your carrier to protect your account.

Now that you understand the risks, let’s look at how businesses communicate and examine measures to combat these new SMS risks in our mobile carrier networks and SMS.

The Role of Businesses in Messaging Security

For businesses relying on text messaging to communicate with clients or employees, the stakes are even higher. Data breaches or compromised communication channels can result in financial loss, reputational damage, and regulatory penalties. Businesses should:

• Adopt Secure Messaging Platforms: Transition to secure business communication tools that prioritize encryption.
• Educate Employees: Train staff to recognize phishing attempts and follow secure communication protocols.
• Monitor for Threats: Use threat detection systems to identify and mitigate potential vulnerabilities in messaging systems.

The Future of Text Messaging Security

As cyber threats evolve, so must our defenses. Governments and organizations are pushing for more secure communication standards, including the broader adoption of RCS (Rich Communication Services), which offers enhanced security over SMS.
However, until these measures become widespread, individuals and businesses must stay proactive. By adopting secure messaging practices and staying informed about emerging threats, you can better protect your sensitive information.

Cybersecurity is a shared responsibility—take action today to ensure your messages remain private and secure.

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Additional Reading:

• NPR – FBI warns Americans to keep their text messages secure: What to know