Notice to HorseQuest Customers - Text Phishing Scam

It has been brought to our attention that some advertisers have been targeted by an text phishing scam which is currently affecting all equine classified websites. 

Unfortunately advertising relatively high value items online such as horses and equipment can occasionally attract attention from the wrong sort of buyers. We’re asking all advertisers to take a moment to read through the information below and be vigilant when responding to text and email enquiries in relation to your advert(s).      

Please be aware that Horsequest will NEVER contact you by text message.     

Phishing is a method used by fraudsters to access valuable personal details, such as usernames and passwords.

Phishing can also involve sending malicious attachments or website links in an effort to infect computers or mobile devices. Criminals send bogus communications: emails, letters, instant messages or text messages. Very often these appear to be authentic communications from legitimate organisations. Embedded links within the message can direct you to a hoax website where your login or personal details may be requested. You may also run the risk of your computer or smartphone being infected by viruses.

What to look out for and what you should do if you receive a phishing message

Be aware and pro-active: When responding to texts, emails or phone calls, never give your login or personal details. If you receive a text or email from a company that claims to be legitimate but is requesting these details, or a contact number tell them you will call them back. Use a contact number for the organisation that you have sourced reputably. Speak to them directly to confirm that the message is genuine

Know your source: Never respond to a message from an unknown source. Take care not to click any embedded links. Phishing texts and emails are sent to a vast number of randomly generated numbers and addresses. However, clicking embedded links can provide verification of your active e-mail address. Once this occurs it may facilitate the targeting of further malicious emails. Even “unsubscribe” links can be malicious. Ensure that the text message or e-mail is from a trusted source and you are, in fact, subscribed to the service.

What can you do?

The text message has not come from the HorseQuest team, and please remember we will never contact you via text message. Advice from Action Fraud is to delete any such messages and never follow any links.      

Unfortunately these scams are increasingly difficult to police, however, you can report it quickly and easily at www.actionfraud.police.uk or alternatively call their helpline on 0300 123 2040. If you believe you are currently in contact with a fraudulent buyer then we strongly suggest that you cease correspondence immediately and report it to Action Fraud.

Please rest assured we are doing all we can to try and combat this, but the best form of defence is to be vigilant, use your common sense and if you have any doubts please contact the HorseQuest team.

We hope that this advice will help you to feel confident about using HorseQuest to buy and sell and help you to avoid being caught out by these convincing scams.   

Kind regards,     

The HorseQuest Team