Cisco Cyber Security Practice Exam - Prep, Study Guide & Practice Test

The type of attack that uses text messages to prompt immediate action regarding account information is known as smishing. Smishing combines "SMS" and "phishing" to describe a specific kind of phishing attack where the scammer sends fraudulent messages via SMS to trick recipients into providing sensitive information. These messages often create a sense of urgency, convincing the recipient that immediate action is required such as verifying account information or clicking on a malicious link.

Understanding this concept is essential as smishing exploits the trust users have in text messages and the immediacy of mobile communication, making it a potent threat in the realm of cyber security.