FADOQ

More and more people are receiving text messages from unknown numbers, for example:

• “A payment is required immediately”
• “Suspicious activity detected on your account”
• “Account closed due to late payment”

These messages may seem urgent or legitimate, but they are often scams.

It is important to know that FADOQ does not use text messages (also called SMS) to communicate with you. If you receive a suspicious text message: do nothing and contact your regional office

If you receive a text message, always take a few seconds before acting when it seems urgent, as this is often a sign of fraud known as SMS phishing (smishing).

What is SMS Phishing?

It is a type of fraud where malicious individuals impersonate:

• an organization where you are a client or member (bank, delivery service, government, FADOQ, etc.)
• or even a trusted company

They try to get you to:

• click on a link
• disclose your personal information (password, credit card information, etc.)

The goal: to steal your money or your identity.

 Warning signs to watch for

Be cautious of a text message that:

• comes from an unknown or unusual number
• asks you to click on a link
• creates a sense of urgency (“immediately,” “last chance”)
• claims to be from an official organization
• contains errors or an unusual message
• announces an unexpected prize or winnings

By staying vigilant, you help protect your personal information and prevent scam attempts. Feel free to share these tips with your loved ones to help them protect themselves as well.