Stay cybersafe: Be alert for smishing scams

Smishing, short for SMS phishing, is a scam sent in a text message. The sender's goal may be to get you to click on a malicious link or call a phone number so they can get valuable information. Always validate the sender that you receive a text from before taking action, and avoid clicking on links. Remember that criminals often use spoofed phone numbers that appear to be from trusted businesses or individuals, even Ameren employees and executives. Always be cautious, even when the caller ID shows a local number or company name you recognize.