Texting Gone Wrong

Lately, cell phones have been the "hot" topic within the discussions in our class. Over the years, the use of cell phones has changed. Today, and for myself, I know that if I need to talk to a friend, I do not dial their number but instead send them a text. To me, texting is so much simpler but I never realized how texting can be problematic and actually a bit scary. A couple years ago I had received an email about cell phones (yes I keep a lot of my emails but am sure glad I kept this one). Below is the email.

This lady has changed her habit of how she lists her names on her mobile phone after her handbag was stolen. Her handbag, which contained her cell phone, credit card, wallet... etc... was stolen. 20 minutes later when she called her hubby, from a pay phone telling him what had happened, hubby says "I received your text asking about our Pin number and I've replied a little while ago." When they rushed down to the bank, the bank staff told them all the money was already withdrawn. The thief had actually used the stolen cell phone to text "hubby" in the contact list and got hold of the pin number. Within 20 minutes he had withdrawn all the money from their bank account.
Moral of the lesson: Do not disclose the relationship between you and the people in your contact list. Avoid using names like Home, Honey, Hubby, Sweetheart, Dad, Mom, etc.... And very importantly, when sensitive info is being asked through texts, CONFIRM by calling back. Also, when you're being text by friends or family to meet them somewhere, be sure to call back to confirm that the message came from them. If you don't reach them, be very careful about going places to meet "family and friends" who text you.

This email changed the way I put names in my cell phone and how one's personal cell phone is not private at all.