Public Safety Alert: Smishing and Vishing Campaign
CAPE GIRARDEAU COUNTY, Mo., (KBSI) – The Cape Girardeau County Sheriff’s Department is warning residents of these scams. The FBI and Department of Homeland Security have issued a warning about a new wave of malicious messages. Scammers are impersonating senior U.S. officials using fake texts, known as “smishing,” and AI-generated voice messages, known as “vishing,” to steal personal or financial information.
What to Watch For
Unexpected texts or calls from “government officials” urging you to click links or switch apps
Caller ID or URL errors, such as misspellings, strange characters, or unfamiliar domains
Robotic or glitchy-sounding voicemails that may be AI-generated
How to Protect Yourself
Verify independently by calling the agency directly using a verified number
Avoid clicking unknown links or attachments
Use multi-factor authentication and never share your codes
Create a family “secret phrase” for verifying identity during emergencies
Report Suspicious Activity
If you’ve received one of these messages or think you’ve been targeted, file a report.
