Beware of texts luring users to fake National Health Insurance Service sites, malicious apps

The National Health Insurance Service warned Tuesday that text messages impersonating the agency are circulating, directing recipients to fraudulent websites and tricking them into installing malicious apps.

The messages arrive under the subject line "Check the bill sent by the National Health Insurance Service" and include a URL linking to a site that impersonates the agency.

The texts incorporate the agency's official corporate identity to appear legitimate, then deceive recipients into installing a malicious app by claiming they must download a separate "secure document viewer" to open the attached file.

"The agency does not include URLs in any electronic notices or insurance bill texts sent via SMS or messaging apps," an agency official said. "Anyone who receives such a message should delete it immediately or verify it through a local branch or our customer center."