SMS Bombing: The Risks and Dangers of Text Message Attacks -

In the realm of cybersecurity, SMS Bomber attacks are emerging as a modern threat with significant and concerning consequences. Many of us have experienced receiving SMS or calls from unknown numbers on our phones, often from businesses, sales companies, or illegal betting sites that obtain SMS permission from their customers.

What is SMS Bombing

SMS bombing, also known as text bombing or SMS flooding, is a cyberattack where an attacker sends a large volume of text messages to a target’s phone number in a short period of time. The purpose of SMS bombing is to overwhelm the target’s device with a flood of incoming messages, causing disruptions such as draining the phone’s battery, slowing down or crashing the messaging app, or even rendering the device temporarily unusable.

SMS bombing can be carried out using automated tools or scripts that send numerous messages to the target’s phone number. Attackers may use SMS bombing for various malicious purposes, including harassment, revenge, or disrupting the target’s communication.

SMS Bomber attacks can serve various purposes, including trolling, cyberbullying, or diverting the target’s attention.

These attacks often involve the use of simple scripts and are facilitated through underground forums, messaging platforms like Telegram, ICQ, and Discord, as well as open-source code sharing platforms such as GitHub and Replit. Throughout our research, our goal was to maintain a comprehensive understanding of SMS Bomber attacks and their impact.

Example of SMS Bombing

An example of SMS bombing might involve an individual using an automated tool or script to send hundreds or even thousands of text messages to a target’s phone number within a short period of time.

For instance, let’s say an individual wants to harass someone they have a grudge against. They obtain the target’s phone number and input it into an SMS bombing tool they found online. They set the tool to send 500 text messages to the target’s phone number every minute.

As a result, the target’s phone begins receiving an overwhelming number of text messages, causing their device to slow down or freeze. The continuous stream of messages may drain the phone’s battery quickly and make it difficult for the target to use their device for normal communication.

In this scenario, the attacker’s goal is to disrupt the target’s communication and cause frustration or inconvenience. SMS bombing attacks like this can have serious consequences for the target and are considered illegal and unethical.

How to prevent SMS bombing

To prevent SMS bombing, consider the following measures:

Use a Spam Filter: Enable spam filters on your messaging app or mobile device to automatically detect and block suspicious messages.
Enable Do Not Disturb Mode: Activate “Do Not Disturb” mode on your phone to silence notifications from unknown or unwanted numbers.
Block Suspicious Numbers: Block phone numbers that are sending spam or unwanted messages to prevent further communication.
Report Spam: Report spam messages to your mobile service provider or the appropriate authorities to help identify and stop the source of the spam.
Use Security Software: Install reputable security software on your device that includes features to detect and block spam messages.
Avoid Sharing Personal Information: Be cautious about sharing your phone number online or with unknown individuals or websites to minimize the risk of receiving unsolicited messages.
Update Software: Keep your messaging app and mobile operating system up to date with the latest security patches and updates to protect against known vulnerabilities.
Educate Yourself: Stay informed about the latest SMS bombing techniques and scams, and educate yourself on how to recognize and avoid suspicious messages.
Use Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Enable two-factor authentication on your accounts whenever possible to add an extra layer of security and prevent unauthorized access, even if your phone number is compromised.
Contact Your Service Provider: If you are being targeted by SMS bombing or receiving a high volume of spam messages, contact your mobile service provider for assistance and advice on how to address the issue.