What are the most common SMS security vulnerabilities?

2 SMS interception

SMS interception is when someone intercepts your messages while they are in transit between your device and the network. This can happen if the network is insecure, compromised, or unencrypted. The interceptor can read, modify, or redirect your messages to their own device or server. To prevent SMS interception, you should use end-to-end encryption apps, such as Signal or WhatsApp, that encrypt your messages before they leave your device and decrypt them only when they reach the intended recipient.

4 SMS flooding

SMS flooding is when someone sends you a large number of messages in a short period of time, either manually or using an automated software. The purpose of SMS flooding may be to annoy you, to disrupt your service, or to hide a malicious message among the flood. SMS flooding can consume your battery, memory, and bandwidth, and make your device slow or unresponsive. To stop SMS flooding, you should block the sender's number, report the abuse to your carrier, and delete the unwanted messages.

5 SMS malware

SMS malware is when someone infects your device with a malicious software that can send or receive SMS messages without your knowledge or consent. The malware may use your device to send spam, scam, or phishing messages to your contacts or other numbers, or to receive commands or data from a remote server. The malware may also access your contacts, photos, location, and other information on your device. To prevent SMS malware, you should only download apps from trusted sources, update your device regularly, and use a reputable antivirus software.

6 SMS backup

SMS backup is when someone accesses your messages that are stored on your device, on a cloud service, or on a third-party app. The backup may contain your personal or professional conversations, your verification codes, your passwords, or your confidential data. The backup may be accessed by someone who has physical access to your device, by someone who has your cloud credentials, or by someone who hacks the backup app or service. To protect your SMS backup, you should use a strong password, lock your device, enable encryption, and limit the backup access.