FBI Issues Stern Warning Against Clicking Links in Text Messages

In a critical advisory issued on June 9, 2025, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has cautioned smartphone users, particularly those with iPhones and Android devices, to refrain from clicking on unsolicited links in text messages. This warning comes amid a significant increase in cyberattacks targeting mobile phone users, with reports indicating a surge in malicious phishing schemes employing sophisticated tactics to compromise personal information.

The FBI's advisory highlights a growing trend of cybercriminals leveraging smartphone messaging systems to execute attacks, including SMS phishing—often referred to as 'smishing'—and voice message phishing, known as 'vishing.' According to Supervisory Special Agent Jennifer Lee of the FBI Cyber Division, these attacks frequently involve impersonation of official entities and utilize AI-generated messages to enhance credibility and lure unsuspecting users into a trap.

"The threat landscape has evolved dramatically, with cybercriminals employing advanced tactics to exploit vulnerabilities in mobile communication," stated Agent Lee in a press briefing. "Our message is clear: do not click on any links in unsolicited communications, regardless of their appearance."

The FBI's warning aligns with findings from a 2023 report by the Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), which indicated that mobile devices are increasingly becoming targets for cyberattacks due to their widespread use and the personal nature of the data they hold (CISA, 2023). A staggering 60% of Americans reported receiving a phishing attempt via text message in the past year, according to a survey conducted by the Pew Research Center in January 2025.

As cyber threats continue to escalate, the FBI has offered practical advice for users to safeguard their devices. "Verify any request by looking up the company's legitimate phone number and contacting them directly. Do not use numbers provided in suspicious messages," Agent Lee emphasized.

This warning is particularly pertinent considering recent incidents where users have inadvertently downloaded malware by clicking on malicious links embedded in seemingly authentic messages. In one case reported in March 2025, a Los Angeles resident fell victim to a smishing scheme that resulted in the theft of personal banking information. According to cybersecurity expert Dr. Michael Thompson, a professor at Stanford University specializing in digital security, such incidents are becoming alarmingly commonplace. "Cybercriminals are becoming more adept at mimicking trusted sources, making it increasingly difficult for the average user to discern legitimate requests from scams," Dr. Thompson noted.

Moreover, the rise of AI tools in phishing campaigns has added another layer of complexity to these threats. A report by the International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP) in February 2025 highlighted how AI-generated messages can convincingly imitate the writing style of legitimate organizations, thereby increasing the likelihood of victims falling prey to these schemes (IAPP, 2025).

The FBI's advisory underscores the importance of public awareness and education in the fight against cybercrime. As technology evolves, so too must the strategies employed by both cybercriminals and individuals seeking to protect themselves.

In conclusion, the FBI's warning serves as a critical reminder of the persistent and evolving nature of cyber threats, particularly in the realm of mobile communication. Users are urged to remain vigilant and exercise caution in their online interactions, especially when it comes to unsolicited messages that prompt them to click on links. The implications of ignoring this advice can be severe, potentially resulting in financial loss and identity theft, underscoring the necessity of proactive measures in cybersecurity.

As we move forward, it is imperative that users stay informed about cybersecurity best practices and remain alert to the signs of potential phishing attempts. The future of digital security will depend on the collective awareness and actions of users in navigating an increasingly treacherous online landscape.