smish

American  

[smish] / smɪʃ /

verb (used without object)

1. to stealthily collect personal information via text message sent to a mobile device, usually instructing the user to call a toll-free number.

   When identity theft fraudsters are smishing, your cell phone may be an easy target.

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verb (used with object)

1. to scam (someone) or exploit (their mobile device) in this way.

   Has your smartphone been smished?

Other Word Forms

• smisher
  noun

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Etymology

Origin of smish

First recorded in 2005–10; blend of SMS ( def. ) and phish ( def. )

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