Social Engineering: The Billion-Dollar Scam You’ve Probably Encountered
Did you know that 80–94% of Verizon and Comcast customers are experiencing social engineering attacks? That’s not just a statistic—it’s a wake-up call.
What Is Social Engineering?
Social engineering is a form of manipulation where attackers trick people into giving up confidential information—like passwords, credit card numbers, or access to systems—by pretending to be someone trustworthy. Unlike traditional hacking, which targets systems, social engineering targets people.
These attacks often come in the form of:
- Phishing emails that look like they’re from your bank or HR department.
- Text messages claiming you owe a toll or missed a delivery.
- Phone calls from someone pretending to be tech support or a government agency.
The goal? To get you to click, share, or pay—fast.
The Toll Text Scam: A Real-World Example
A recent report from The Independent uncovered a massive scam run by criminal gangs in China. These groups have made over $1 billion by sending fake toll collection texts to Americans. Victims are tricked into entering their payment details, which are then used by gig workers in the U.S. to buy goods and ship them back to China.
It’s a sophisticated operation that blends social engineering with global logistics—and it’s working. Many people, including those in your immediate social circles, have fallen for it.
What to Watch For
Here are a few red flags to help you stay safe:
- Urgency: “Pay now or face penalties.” Scammers want you to act before you think.
- Unfamiliar links: Hover before you click. If it looks suspicious, it probably is.
- Requests for personal info: Legitimate companies won’t ask for sensitive data via text or email.
Stay Ahead with Summit Business Technologies
At Summit Business Technologies, we help individuals and organizations stay proactive against threats like these. From security awareness training to real-time threat monitoring, we’re your partner in staying informed and protected.
If you’ve received a suspicious message or want to strengthen your defenses, reach out. We’re here to help.
