Chinese phishing groups are now sending scam SMS messages about unclaimed tax refunds and rewards points, aiming to steal payment card data. They create fake e-commerce sites that look legitimate, making it difficult for consumers to spot the fraud until it's too late. Experts warn that this increase in scams often coincides with the holiday shopping rush.

Google is suing over 25 individuals linked to Lighthouse, a phishing service that enables scammers to impersonate trusted brands and steal payment card data via text messages. The suit aims to disrupt a network known for targeting over a million victims worldwide, using sophisticated tactics to enroll stolen card information into mobile wallets.

Authorities are cautioning the public about SMS "blaster" scams that facilitate the sending of fraudulent texts without needing personal phone numbers. A recent case involved a man jailed for over a year for using such a device to send messages impersonating trusted organizations, highlighting the growing threat of smishing attacks.