montage: watson / shutterstock
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That is behind the strange post SMS that thousands of Swiss have received for days
Criminals send SMS on behalf of Swiss Post, informing them of an alleged delivery. Fraudsters try to install a spy app on Android devices or get the Apple ID of iPhone users.
In the past few days, thousands of Swiss people have received a text message that is said to come from the post. It looks like a typical delivery notification. In fact, criminals are trying to get the Apple ID of iPhone users or to tempt Android users to install a spy app. Hijacked cell phones then automatically send thousands of text messages to other cell phone users at the expense of the victims.
The cantonal police in Zurich and Swisscom warn of the fraudulent SMS.
The Zurich Cantonal Police writes on her website cybercrimepolice.ch: «If you click on the link, you get to a fake website. If you enter your mobile number there, the Android user will be offered an app for downloading or the Apple user will be asked for his Apple ID. »
For Apple users:
«This package is sent by Apple. Please enter your Apple ID for inquiries. » screenshot: cybercrimepolice.ch
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For Android users:
«Check the package information. Please download the Post-App ». screenshot: cybercrimepolice.ch
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What to do
The police recommend deleting the SMS immediately and never installing the app. iPhone users should never reveal their Apple ID.
This is what happens when you fall for it
The Zurich Cantonal Police wrote:
- “If the app is installed on the cell phone, it can track calls, read and send SMS or MMS and access the contacts.
- The app accesses the user account at the victim’s telecommunications service provider and purchases are made at the victim’s expense.
- The cell phone becomes part of a botnet of the perpetrators. Thousands of SMS are then sent to other cell phone users via the cell phone. This is at the victim’s expense. »
According to the police recommendation, anyone who installs the spy app or has entered the Apple ID should do the following:
- Switch off smartphone
- Reset device to factory settings
- Change access data to the Apple account
- If damage has occurred, file a criminal complaint
More detailed information about fraud can be found on the website cybercrimepolice.ch.
The Post also explains how to do this on its website recognizes the current attempts at fraud.
(oli)
Fraud with postal parcels on a large scale
Video: srf / Roberto Krone
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