smish

[ smish ]

verb (used without object)

1. to stealthily collect personal information via text message sent to a mobile device, usually instructing the user to call a toll-free number:

   When identity theft fraudsters are smishing, your cell phone may be an easy target.

verb (used with object)

1. to scam (someone) or exploit (their mobile device) in this way:

   Has your smartphone been smished?

Other Words From

• smish·er noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of smish¹

First recorded in 2005–10; blend of SMS ( def ) and phish ( def )

Example Sentences

In 2024, AI has made smishing attacks much more effective and personal.

From Salon

In a smishing scheme, you receive a text message that may say, “Your account has now been put on hold.”

From Washington Post

"The risks are considerable for individuals in terms of scamming, spamming, smishing, phishing and loss of control over their personal data so we imposed a fine of €265m in total."

From BBC

So get up to speed on how to recognize phishing and smishing attacks.

From Los Angeles Times

SMS phishing, or “smishing,” has been on the rise in recent years, but there’s something more disconcerting and invasive about it being linked to your own number.

From The Verge