A person using a smartphone with multiple phishing alert messages appearing on the screen, representing the rising threat of smishing attacks and text-based cyber scams.

You’re being hunted.

If you own a smartphone, you’re on the list. It’s not a question of if hackers will come for you—it’s when.

And according to the FBI, that moment is getting closer.

A new nationwide scam is spreading fast. The FBI warns that it’s jumping state to state, hitting unsuspecting users through text message scams (smishing), stolen phones, and even zero-day malware.

If this scam isn’t in your city yet, it will be soon.

Here’s what you need to know before you become the next victim.

  1. The Toll Scam That’s Raking in Millions

The FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) has received over 2,000 complaints about fake road toll collection texts.

The message looks legitimate. It even includes the name of your local toll service and a warning:

(Fake Toll Service Name): We’ve noticed an outstanding toll amount of $12.51 on your record. To avoid a late fee of $50.00, visit https://myturnpiketollservices.com to settle your balance.

Everything looks right—except it’s all fake.

The second you click the link, hackers are inside your device.

  1. Smishing Attacks Are Getting Smarter

These AI-generated text scams aren’t just limited to fake toll charges. Attackers are stealing millions with increasingly convincing messages like:

  • Amazon Delivery Scam: “Your package is delayed due to unpaid shipping fees. Pay now to avoid return: [Malicious Link]”
  • Bank Alert Scam: “Unusual login detected on your account. Secure it immediately: [Malicious Link]”
  • Customs Fee Scam: “Your international shipment requires a customs payment. Click here to confirm delivery: [Malicious Link]”
  • Tax Refund Scam: “The IRS has issued you a refund of $1,572.23. Claim now: [Malicious Link]”
  • Voicemail Scam: “You have a new urgent voicemail from [Fake Number]. Listen now: [Malicious Link]”

If the message creates panic or urgency, it’s a scam.

DO NOT click. Delete it immediately.

  1. The Fastest Way to Lose Everything? Get Your Phone Stolen

Hackers don’t even need to trick you if they can physically steal your phone.

Think about it:

  • Your passwords? Likely stored in a password manager.
  • Your banking apps? Auto-login enabled.
  • Your email? A goldmine for resetting every account you own.

If they crack your PIN, it’s game over.

Here’s how to protect yourself before you lose your device:

- Use a long PIN (not 1234 or your birth year).

- Turn on encryption so stolen data is useless.

- Enable Find My iPhone / Find My Device for remote wipe.

- Use biometric locks (face or fingerprint) where possible.

No plan? No security. No second chances.

  1. The FBI’s Final Warning: Zero-Day Malware Is on the Rise

Hackers aren’t just after your texts and PINs. They’re exploiting your phone’s software itself.

Zero-day attacks target vulnerabilities that have no fix yet. And the FBI is seeing more of them than ever.

The best way to fight back?

- Update your device constantly. New updates patch security holes before hackers exploit them.

- Restart your phone daily. A simple reboot can kill certain types of malware before they activate.

- Never install apps from unknown sources. If it’s not from the official App Store or Google Play, don’t touch it.

I even set a daily alarm that says “Restart!” Simple, but effective.

Bottom Line: If You Have a Phone, You’re a Target

And we’re just scratching the surface.

Your smartphone is the key to your entire digital life. Hackers know it. They’re working every day to break in—whether through fake texts, stolen devices, or software exploits.

Don’t make it easy for them.

Delete suspicious texts. Lock down your device. Update and restart regularly.

Because once they’re in, it’s already too late.