In a new blog for Avast, I report on a new study from the IRS which shows that smishing attacks — phishing using SMS text alerts– is on the rise. My wife and I have seen numerous messages that typically are phony package delivery acknowledgements on packages that we never ordered, or offers to send us money out of the blue.

The IRS said the attacks have increased exponentially, especially texts that appear to be coming from the taxing agency. It’s important to note that no matter who you are or your particular tax situation, the IRS never communicates with anyone in this fashion, or by email either. “It is phishing on an industrial scale,” said IRS commissioner Chuck Rettig.