Despite implementing various laws and regulations, there has been no significant reduction in cybercrimes. People are misusing every communication tool for mobile hacking, online bullying, sending prank messages, and creating marbling photos. Though these started as pranks, they become serious issues when they endanger someone’s life.
In the same way, one of the cybercrime activities is SMS bombing, which people consider a silly prank that is a crime. The bad thing is that in the digital world, the SMS bomber has gained attention from people for its disturbing nature. Continue reading the blog to understand what SMS bombers are and how their work reflects the legal consequences.
What is an SMS Bomber?
An SMS bomber is a harmful prank that sends text messages to an unknown phone number of a person with the sole intent of hurting them. The disturbing message makes it emotionally difficult for the receiver. These harmful messages can be sent through automated tools or scripted to the target inbox. Though it seems like a harmless prank, it is annoying and hurts the receiver mentally.
How SMS Bomber Works
To avoid their identity, the SMS bomber used an automated text message or a flooding script program to send the text to the targets. When the target receives many messages daily, they feel crispy and harmed. Here is what they do:
- Message Generator: SMS bombers misuse the automated message generator. They create scripts or a high volume of hurt messages and randomly send them to the targeted numbers. The content of the message is wholly dependent on the sender’s mindset.
- Message Path: The target received the message from various communication platforms, such as SMS messages, emails, or third-party applications.
- Message Backlog: Sometimes, the SMS bomber sends a scripted message to multiple people at a time to freeze the user’s account. They attack the target without a particular intention, such as for documents, money, or bullying.
When the series of messages fills the inbox, the device will be overloaded, and the user will be unable to access the account.
How SMS Bomber Threatens the People
=> Flooding the Victim’s Phone
The attacker uses an SMS bomber to send a series of disturbing messages to the targeted number, crashing out their entire account. This prevents the victim’s inbox from receiving or sharing the legal document. With the account frozen, the victim panics, and it pleasures the attacker.
=> Blackmailing the Target
One of the main reasons for SMS bombers is to demand money. Mostly, they hold up the target’s personal things or information to lure the cash. This attack makes the target constrain their thoughts and obey the attackers’ ideas without any second thoughts.
=> Use of Tactics
When the target doesn’t comply with the threats, the attackers increase the intensity of messages and threads to target family members or share personal information with people. They often claim to hold up the target’s information.
=> Psychological Manipulation
When the victim is pressured, they become afraid and anxious. This emotional imbalance weakens the target, and they try to sort out the problem by complying with the blackmailer’s demand.
Why are SMS Bombers Illegal
Though people see SMS bombers as a harmful, fun prank, they fail to understand the dark side behind it.
1. Harassment
One of the main reasons for SMS bombers being considered to be illegal is that sending unwanted messages without any reason is cybercrime and a form of cyberbullying. These actions are punishable in all countries.
2. Privacy Violation
Sending numerous hurtful messages without consent is a violation. Taking a picture of someone and morphing it is also a crime that can result in a high penalty or jail time.
3. Data Breaches
Some SMS bombers focus on collecting the victim’s personal information. Invading their private life leads to identity theft and causes high violence consequences. The attackers not only blackmail the user for fun; they may also want to disrupt the victim’s mobile services.
4. Terms of service
Many mobile applications and messaging platforms have strict rules and regulations on terms of service to prohibit scams. When SMS bombers violate these terms, they face potential consequences.
Consequences Of Using Sms Bombers
- Legal punishment: When the SMS bomber is caught, they may face fines or go to jail, depending on the severity of the laws.
- Reputation damage: SMS bombers may lose their fame and reputation after being caught, eventually affecting their personal and professional lives.
- Financial loss: The law may seize the attacker’s property to compensate for the victim’s loss.
How To Stay Alert From Sms Bombers
- Use a spam filter: Using the correct filter may alert your devices and deny access to third-party applications.
- Report suspicious activities: If you feel unsafe or are being watched by someone, immediately inform your mobile carrier or official platform about unusual activities.
- Keep your number private: One of your mistakes is sharing your personal information everywhere. So stop sharing your number on every third-party site to avoid the risk of misuse.
- Educate others: Many people are still unaware of the SMS bomber and fall into their traps. Teach your friends and family about SMS scams and encourage them in digital behavior.
What To Do If You’re Targeted
Rule 1: Never panic. Panic is the key for attackers. Try to stay calm and shout out your opinion boldly.
Rule 2: Don’t pay the attackers an amount. It will only move the crime doer to lure more money.
Rule 3: Contact the official and report the cybercrime in detail if the attacker threatens with personal information.
Rule 4: Take screenshots or voice record the attackers to use it as evidence after the blackmailer.
Wrapping It Up
SMS bombing is an uprising threat worldwide. It is significant to recognize a harmful situation and report the scam. This not only helps you protect yourself but also prevents the fraud from happening again.
Ensure people know the SMS bomber’s work and its impact on life. When every individual supports and fights together against these types of scams, they can safeguard their personal and professional lives from the digital environment.
