


Invest how you want, when you want, in real time with Self-Directed Investing.
Being a teen is hard enough. Help us support Teen Cancer America to improve their quality of care.
We're committed to serving companies as they expand and succeed. The proof is in our success stories.
May Q&A: Available now
This month, the Making Sense team answers client questions related to trade policy developments and their impacts on key economic issues.
If you get a text purporting to be from a reputable source that asks you to provide personal information or click a link, it might be a smishing attack. Smishing—a combination of short message service, or SMS, and phishing—aims to part you from your sensitive information, identity and money. It's catching on with scammers as the public becomes more aware of phishing strategies and cybersecurity issues in general.
But identity thieves don't give up when one well runs dry—they just move on to the next. That's why you need to learn about smishing so you can protect yourself and your assets.
When you send and receive texts on your phone, you're likely using SMS for your communications. A smishing text is one that asks you to click a link or respond with sensitive data. If you click, you'll be taken to a site that's controlled by the attacker. In some cases, the site will look reputable—such as your bank's portal, a social media site or a government agency—and you'll be asked to provide sensitive data. Other times, the link will lead to malware that's designed to compromise your device.
There are several ways a scammer can create a legitimate-looking text message. For instance, a smishing text might try to frighten you into sharing information by claiming you owe money to the IRS. It might try to confuse you by claiming to be a legitimate company, such as FedEx or DHL, that's attempting to deliver a package. Some of these attacks may also try to lure you into clicking a link by claiming you've won money or a gift card from a legitimate website.
You may also receive a text that includes some information about you, such as your name and address, which may reassure you that the text is legitimate. But remember that scammers can access basic public information about you online and use it to trick you into thinking the message is from a trusted source.
There are several online theft-prevention strategies you can follow to make sure a smishing attack doesn't succeed.
Learning how to identify a smishing attack is an important part of keeping your identity, phone and finances secure. But it's not the only method of protecting yourself from cybersecurity threats. Understanding how to keep your personal information protected online, on your phone, and in person can help ensure that your identity and money remain your own.
This material is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be an offer, specific investment strategy, recommendation or solicitation to purchase or sell any security or insurance product, and should not be construed as legal, tax or accounting advice. Please consult with your legal or tax advisor regarding the particular facts and circumstances of your situation prior to making any financial decision. While we believe that the information presented is from reliable sources, we do not represent, warrant or guarantee that it is accurate or complete.
Third parties mentioned are not affiliated with First-Citizens Bank & Trust Company.
Links to third-party websites may have a privacy policy different from First Citizens Bank and may provide less security than this website. First Citizens Bank and its affiliates are not responsible for the products, services and content on any third-party website.
Treasury & Cash Management
Electronic Bill Presentment & Payment
Investment & Retirement Services
Community Association Banking
Equipment Financing & Leasing
Credit Cards
Merchant Services
Insurance
Email Us
Please select the option that best matches your needs.
Customers with account-related questions who aren't enrolled in Digital Banking or who would prefer to talk with someone can call us directly.