Billions of Android and iPhone users issued warning by FBI to search messages for bank draining five-word red flag
THE FBI has issued a warning on its website about dangerous texts and emails that could be lurking on your phone right now.
Whether you use Android or iPhone, scam messages can sneak into your inboxes and target your weaknesses.
1 Miraculous health cure messages are a popular phishing scam Credit: Getty
The scam messages in question regard fraudulent health claims.
The FBI explains: "People spend billions of dollars a year on products and treatments in the hope of improving their health and fitness.
"But a lot of that money goes to companies that make fake claims about those products and treatments, cheating people out of their money, their time — even their health."
Cybercriminals send out phishing emails and texts, hoping to get people interested in their bogus health products.
The messages may contain links to malicious websites that want to steal your personal information and money.
The FBI has provided examples of bogus claims and phrases to watch out for.
It says to be wary when a message or website claims "one product does it all and cures a wide variety of diseases and health problems."
Adding: "Example of a bogus claim: 'proven to treat rheumatism, arthritis, infections, prostate problems, impotency, ulcers, cancer, heart trouble, hardening of the arteries, and more!'
It also wants you to be wary of certain dangerous phrases like "you’ll get miraculous results.”
If you see the five-word red flag that is "we’ll send your money back" then think twice before parting with any money.
The FBI said: "Example of a bogus claim: If, after 30 days, your pain hasn’t stopped, your uncashed check will be returned to you."
Some companies do offer legitimate free trials and money-back guarantees.
However, when it comes to the offer of a miraculous health cure, you should treat a money-back offer with more suspicion.
The FBI also provided several other examples of health scam red flags.
If an email or text tells you to act now and adds time pressure, then it's likely a scam.
Cybercriminals want you to part with your money without having time to think.
Another danger sign is a message or website that uses "scientific-sounding terms or refer to prestigious prizes."
The FBI states: "Example of a bogus claim: They may use bogus phrases like, 'scientific breakthrough,' 'miraculous cure,' 'secret ingredient,' 'exclusive product,' or 'ancient remedy,' that give a misleading impression, or are simply not true."
The best thing to do is to speak to a medical professional about your health concerns.
They'll be able to tell you if a treatment is a scam.
You can report fraudulent health messages to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
Source: The US Sun
