HI HR49

Urges United States Congress to enact legislation addressing the rise in illegal text messages used for scams and fraud.

Notes that consumers received 7,650,000 spam text messages in August 2021, an 8% increase from June 2021, and the Federal Trade Commission received 334,833 complaints about scam text messages, more than double previous years.

Identifies text messaging as the third most popular method for scammers to connect with consumers, as messages can appear harmless and trick recipients into disclosing personal information.

Warns that scammers use stolen personal information to transfer funds from bank accounts, commit identity theft, or sell information to third parties, and may gain complete control of victims' phones.

Directs transmission of certified copies to the U.S. Senate Majority Leader, House Speaker, Hawaii's congressional delegation, Federal Communications Commission Chairman, and Federal Trade Commission Chairman, and urges Congress to consult the FCC when developing proposed legislation.