Google warns billions of users to avoid 'devastating' text message scam that might look innocent

As we approach the end of the year and enter the holiday season, now is not the time to let our guard down against fraudulent scams.

Google is warning all Android phone owners about a text message that 'aims to maximise financial loss.' But iPhone users shouldn't look away just yet either as they could also be targeted.

The tech giant recently released its Behind The Screens report, which highlights the threat posed by text-based scams targeting Android devices.

Among the most prevalent is the 'bait and wait' scam. It starts, which Google calls' initial contact', whereby the recipient receives a text saying something like: 'Hello' or 'Do you remember me?'

Google stated: “This is a slow, calculated, human-operated approach that relies on building a false relationship with a single person over time."

A new 'wait and bait' scam is circulating around Android devices. (Witthaya Prasongsin/Getty)

The message contains no malicious links or immediate red flags, as the scammer’s goal is to get a reply. Google added that the nature of the opening hook can vary, but the scam will progress in a similar pattern from this point forward.

If you respond, the attack enters its second stage, The Manipulation Tactic.

“Once you’re engaged, the scammer’s manipulation tactic diverges,” Google noted. “From here, the scammer focuses on slowly building trust. The scammer engages you in a longer conversation, pretending to be a recruiter or old friend."

Google warned that fraudsters may include personal details from public websites and social media, including your name, job titles or friends, all of which are strategically used to build trust.

“They use social engineering to methodically build a relationship before asking for anything,” the company added.

The time invested in manipulating a victim can vary. For high-value targets, cybercriminals might spend weeks or even months cultivating the relationship.

Others might speed up the process in a matter of minutes or hours.

'The final goal is to steal your information or money.' (tolgart/Getty)

“The final goal is to steal your information or money,” Google added. “The tactics are more patient, aiming to maximise financial loss over time."

Moreover, scammers may lure their victims into a third-party app to 'evade security and monitoring.'

The final stage is Endgame.

“After building significant trust, they leverage the emotional connection to make an urgent request for money or sensitive financial information," Google explained. “The endgame is to manipulate the victim into sending as much as possible before the scammer disappears.”

Fortunately, there are effective strategies to safeguard yourself against this widespread fraud, according to Google:

Be sceptical of unknown or unverified numbers. "If an unknown person contacts you with an offer or opportunity that seems too good to be true, it probably is," the company advised.

Don't take action immediately. "If a message feels suspicious, slow down, pause the conversation, and talk it over with a friend or colleague before proceeding. Never share personal details, give remote access to your screen, or click on unknown links or attachments," Google cautioned.

Stay alert and informed. Your device has built-in software designed to detect scams, serving as your first line of defence. "Always install the latest OS updates and security patches from your device manufacturer. Avoid using public Wi-Fi whenever possible, as these networks can be

unencrypted and easily exploited by attackers," Google said.