Technology

Sending a text the wrong way could cost you money and trouble

Published

10 months ago

May 11, 2025

Sending a text the wrong way could cost you money and trouble

Ever wondered why your text messages sometimes fail to send, show up pixelated or don’t appear at all on the other person’s end?

It might not be your phone, but your carrier’s messaging support. Knowing the difference between SMS, MMS and RCS and how your carrier handles them can save you money, improve message delivery and ensure you’re using the full potential of your messaging app.

A person texting on their phone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Knowing the basics: SMS vs. MMS vs. RCS

Before you can figure out which phone carrier fits your messaging needs, it helps to understand the differences between the three main types of mobile messaging — SMS, MMS and RCS. Each has its own capabilities, limitations and impact on your experience.

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SMS (Short Message Service) is the most basic form of text messaging and has been around since the early days of mobile phones. It allows users to send plain text messages with a strict character limit of 160 characters. SMS messages are sent over the cellular network, which means they work even if you don’t have a data plan or access to Wi-Fi. This makes SMS one of the most reliable messaging options available, especially for simple communication. It works for all phones, even older models, which makes it universal.

MMS (Multimedia Messaging Service) builds upon SMS by allowing the transmission of multimedia content. With MMS, users can send images, videos, audio files and even GIFs. The character limit is significantly higher, typically up to 1,600 characters, although this can vary depending on the carrier. MMS messages also travel over the cellular network but require mobile data to send and receive. They do not require Wi-Fi, but because media files are larger, the reliability can vary. Some carriers compress MMS files or fail to send them if they exceed certain size limits, which means your carefully chosen vacation photo might arrive as a pixelated blur.

RCS (Rich Communication Services) represents the next generation of mobile messaging. It is designed to upgrade the SMS and MMS experience by providing features that rival popular messaging apps like iMessage and WhatsApp. With RCS, users can send high-resolution photos and videos, audio clips, emoji, stickers and even read receipts and typing indicators. There is no character limit, and the service works over Wi-Fi or mobile data instead of over standard cellular channels.

While RCS allows larger files, some messaging platforms or carriers may still apply soft limits or compress images/videos to ensure consistent performance. However, for RCS to work, both the sender and the recipient need to have RCS enabled on a supported messaging app and carrier. Google Messages is the most reliable app for accessing these RCS features, especially on Android devices. However, it should be noted that Apple devices do not support RCS natively because Apple relies on iMessage for similar functionality.

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Why it matters when choosing a wireless carrier

Now that you know what SMS, MMS and RCS are, it’s important to understand how your phone carrier influences your messaging experience. From hidden fees to message delivery issues, the provider you choose can make a big difference in how well these technologies work.

Cost differences

Not all carriers treat these messaging types the same. While SMS is often free and unlimited on many plans, MMS messages may incur additional charges, especially on prepaid or international plans. RCS messages, on the other hand, use mobile data or Wi-Fi and typically do not incur per-message fees, making them a cost-effective option if supported.

For example, carrier A might offer unlimited SMS but charge for every MMS sent. Carrier B might include MMS in the plan but cap the number of SMS messages. Carrier C could fully support RCS, letting users send messages over Wi-Fi for free. Choosing the right carrier based on how you communicate can help avoid surprise charges.

Not all carriers fully support RCS

While SMS and MMS are universally supported, RCS still depends on carrier infrastructure and the messaging app being used. Some carriers support RCS only through their proprietary apps, which may not be compatible with all devices. Others support “universal RCS”, which works across multiple platforms but still requires the right app, most reliably Google Messages.

If you’re hoping to use RCS features like high-resolution image sharing, read receipts and typing indicators, it’s important to ensure your carrier not only supports RCS but also supports it universally across devices and apps. Otherwise, your message may silently fall back to SMS or MMS if the recipient’s carrier or device does not support RCS.

Illustration of text messaging on a smartphone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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As of May 2025, all major U.S. wireless carriers and most of their sub-brands and MVNOs (mobile virtual network operators) fully support SMS, MMS and RCS messaging. This includes both Android and iPhone users (with iOS 18.4 or newer for RCS on iPhone).

You can expect full support for SMS, MMS and RCS on the following carriers: AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, US Cellular, C Spire, Consumer Cellular, Cricket, Family Mobile, FirstNet, H2O Wireless, Metro by T-Mobile, Mint Mobile, Boost Mobile, Google Fi, PureTalk, RedPocket Mobile, Spectrum Mobile, Straight Talk, TracFone, Ultra Mobile, US Mobile, Visible and Xfinity Mobile.

SMS and MMS support: All of these carriers offer SMS and MMS. SMS is almost always unlimited on modern plans, while MMS may have limitations or extra charges on some prepaid or international plans.
RCS support on iPhone: With the release of iOS 18.4, these carriers also support RCS on iPhones. If you have updated to iOS 18.4 or later, you should have access to RCS features, provided your carrier supports it.
RCS support on Android: All these providers support RCS messaging on Android devices, most reliably through the Google Messages app.

If you are using one of these carriers, you can expect the latest messaging features, including high-resolution media sharing, read receipts, typing indicators and the ability to send messages over Wi-Fi or mobile data. For the best experience, make sure your device is updated to the latest software and that you are using a supported messaging app.

For iPhones, RCS support requires iOS 18.4 or higher. As of spring 2025, all major U.S. carriers and most MVNOs (mobile virtual network operators) now support RCS on iPhone.
On Android, RCS is available through Google Messages and is widely supported across all major carriers and most MVNOs.

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International support

RCS support is expanding internationally, with carriers like Orange and Sosh in France offering RCS on iPhones running iOS 18.4 beta. To check if your international carrier supports RCS on iPhone:

Go to Settings
Tap General
Click About
Scroll down and tap Carrier. If RCS is supported, you will see Voice, SMS & RCS.

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Recent changes and security

Apple and Google are rolling out support for RCS Universal Profile 3.0, which brings end-to-end encryption for RCS messages, enhancing privacy and security across platforms. Some carriers may still be updating their infrastructure, so check with your provider or device settings if you do not see RCS options enabled.

Pricing considerations

SMS is typically unlimited on most plans.
MMS may still incur charges on some plans, especially prepaid or international. For example, outbound MMS in Canada is $0.0220 per message as of May 2025.
RCS messages use data or Wi-Fi and generally do not incur per-message fees, making them cost-effective for sending media-rich messages.

International messaging can be affected

If you use a smaller or regional provider not mentioned above, or if you plan to travel internationally, it is important to check with your carrier about its current support for RCS, especially if you use an iPhone. While international support for RCS is expanding, it is not yet universal.

When you are abroad, reliable messaging becomes even more critical. SMS is the most dependable option and works almost everywhere, making it a safe choice for staying connected. MMS, on the other hand, can be inconsistent overseas due to differences in network standards and carrier agreements. RCS is even less predictable outside your home country, as it relies on mobile data or Wi-Fi and often does not function while roaming unless your carrier specifically enables it for international use.

So, if you are traveling or using a less common carrier, always confirm whether your plan includes international MMS and RCS support. This will help you avoid unexpected gaps in communication or surprise fees and ensure your messages reach their destination reliably.

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Email-to-text services vary by carrier

Email-to-text is a feature that lets you send a text message to someone’s phone number directly from your email. To do this, you use a special email-to-SMS gateway provided by the recipient’s mobile carrier. For example, to text a friend on AT&T, you’d send an email to something like 1234567890@txt.att.net.

However, not all carriers support this, and some may block the feature altogether to prevent spam or limit abuse. Even among those that do support it, there can be differences between how SMS (text-only) and MMS (media messages) are handled.

Below are examples of the special email addresses (called gateways) that let you send text messages via email:

AT&T

SMS: number@txt.att.net
MMS: number@mms.att.net

Verizon

SMS: number@vtext.com
MMS: number@vzwpix.com

T-Mobile

SMS & MMS: number@tmomail.net

If you rely on this feature, such as sending yourself reminders from your email or receiving system alerts to your phone, it is important to check whether your carrier supports it. Be aware that not all carriers clearly document this capability, especially smaller providers like Spectrum Mobile or Xfinity Mobile, which may restrict or not support it at all.

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A man texting on his iPhone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Safety steps for mobile messaging

To enhance your mobile messaging security, follow these best practices:

1. Avoid clicking on unknown links or messages and install strong antivirus software: Be cautious with links or attachments from unknown sources because they can lead to phishing or malware attacks. Also, install strong antivirus software on your device to protect against malware and viruses.

The best way to safeguard yourself from malicious links that install malware, potentially accessing your private information, is to have strong antivirus software installed on all your devices. This protection can also alert you to phishing emails and ransomware scams, keeping your personal information and digital assets safe. Get my picks for the best 2025 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.

2. Enable Multi-factor Authentication (MFA): Use MFA to add an extra layer of security for your messaging apps and accounts. This can include methods like authentication apps, physical security keys, or SMS codes, which help prevent unauthorized access even if your password is compromised. By activating MFA, you significantly reduce the risk of your accounts being hacked, providing an essential safeguard against cyber threats.

3. Keep your device and apps updated: Regularly update your operating system and apps to ensure you have the latest security patches.

4. Use end-to-end encrypted messaging apps: Consider using apps with end-to-end encryption for secure communication. This ensures that only you and the intended recipient can read the messages, keeping them safe from hackers or third-party interception. Popular options include Signal, WhatsApp and iMessage, which prioritize privacy and protect sensitive conversations from unauthorized access.

5. Be mindful of public Wi-Fi and use a Virtual Private Network (VPN): Avoid using public Wi-Fi for sensitive communications, as it can be insecure and expose your data to potential eavesdropping or hacking. Consider using a VPN for secure browsing on public networks because it encrypts your internet traffic and masks your IP address, providing a safer experience even on unsecured networks. By using a VPN, you can significantly reduce the risks associated with public Wi-Fi and protect your personal data from unauthorized access. For best VPN software, see my expert review of the best VPNs for browsing the web privately on your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices

6. Delete sensitive messages: Regularly delete sensitive messages to minimize data exposure. This practice helps protect your privacy by ensuring that confidential information isn’t stored indefinitely on your device or in the cloud, where it could potentially be accessed by unauthorized parties. Additionally, consider using messaging apps that offer features like automatic message deletion or self-destructing messages to further enhance your privacy

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Kurt’s key takeaways

Texting may seem simple, but there’s a lot going on behind the scenes, especially when your messages aren’t sending or show up weird. Understanding the difference between SMS, MMS and RCS can save you from headaches, surprise charges and blurry photos. The good news? A little knowledge goes a long way. Now that you’re in the know, you can text smarter, choose the right carrier and keep your conversations running smoothly, wherever you are.

Do you think mobile carriers should do more to protect you from phishing scams and malicious links sent via SMS and MMS? What specific measures would you like them to implement? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact

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Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

Technology

Xiaomi 17 is a small(ish) phone with a big(ish) battery

Published

8 hours ago

February 28, 2026

Press Room

Xiaomi 17 is a small(ish) phone with a big(ish) battery

Xiaomi has just given a global launch to two of its latest flagship phones, the Xiaomi 17 and 17 Ultra, along with a Leica-branded Leitzphone edition of the Ultra. There’s no sign, however, of the 17 Pro, which launched in China with an additional display mounted next to the rear cameras.

The 17 and 17 Ultra will apparently be available soon in the UK, Europe, and select other markets. The 17 — pitched as a rival to the likes of the iPhone 17 and Samsung Galaxy S26 — will cost £899 / €999 (about $1,200), while the larger and more capable Ultra starts from £1,299 / €1,499 ($1,750). The limited-edition Leitzphone will be substantially more expensive at £1,699 / €1,999 ($2,300), though it includes 16GB of RAM and 1TB of storage, along with a few extra accessories.

I like the simple, sleek aesthetic of the phone.

Photo of Xiaomi 17 homescreen on a wooden table outdoors

The 6.3-inch display isn’t tiny, but it does make the phone small by modern standards.

All three of the phone’s rear cameras are 50-megapixel.

The 17 is an extremely capable small-ish flagship, with a 6.3-inch OLED display, Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, and large 6,330mAh silicon-carbon battery (though sadly smaller than the 7,000mAh version launched in China). I won’t be writing a full review of the 17, but did spend a week using it as my main phone, and found that the battery cruised past the full-day mark, though wasn’t quite enough for two full days of my typical usage. That’s far better battery life than you’d find in similarly sized phones from Apple, Samsung, or Google.

The cameras impress too, with 50-megapixel sensors behind each of the four lenses, selfie included. Pound for pound, you won’t find many better camera systems in any phone this size.

1/10

I’ve been largely impressed by the Xiaomi 17’s cameras.

The Ultra, unsurprisingly, takes things to another level. It’s much larger, with a 6.9-inch display, and weighs a hefty 218g. Despite that, the 6,000mAh is actually smaller, though I found it delivered pretty similar longevity.

Photo of Xiaomi 17 and 17 Ultra on a table, closeup on the cameras

The 17 Ultra is larger in just about every respect, but strangely has a smaller battery.

The enormous camera is, as ever for Xiaomi’s Ultra phones, the highlight. There are 50-megapixel sensors for each of the main, ultrawide, and selfie cameras, with a large 1-inch-type sensor behind the primary lens. The periscope telephoto is even more impressive: 200-megapixel resolution, a large 1/1.4-inch sensor, and continuous optical zoom from 3.2x to 4.3x, the equivalent of 75-100mm. Xiaomi isn’t the first to pull off a true zoom phone — Sony’s Xperia 1 IV got there first in 2022 — but the telephoto camera here is far more capable than that phone’s, with natural bokeh and impressive performance even in low light.

Photo of Xiaomi 17 Ultra Leitzphone outdoors

This is the Leica-branded Leitzphone version of the 17 Ultra.

The camera capabilities are supported by Xiaomi’s ongoing photography partner Leica, but it’s the pair’s Leitzphone that really emphasizes that. Slightly redesigned from the 17 Ultra Leica Edition that was released in China last December, this includes Leica branding across the hardware and software, a range of Leica filters and shooting styles, and a rotatable rear camera ring that can be used to control the zoom. It’s the first Leica Leitzphone produced by Xiaomi — after a trio of Japan-only Sharp models — and comes with additional branded accessories, including a case with a lens cap and a microfiber cleaning cloth.

Xiaomi has plenty of other announcements alongside the 17 series phones at MWC this year, including a super-slim magnetic power bank, the Pad 8 and Pad 8 Pro tablets, and a smart tag that supports both Google and Apple’s tech-tracking networks.

Photography by Dominic Preston / The Verge

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Dominic Preston

Technology

Google dismantles 9M-device Android hijack network

Published

9 hours ago

February 28, 2026

Press Room

Google dismantles 9M-device Android hijack network

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Free apps are supposed to cost you nothing but storage space. But in this case, they may have cost millions of people control over their own internet connections.

Google says it has disrupted what it believes was the world’s largest residential proxy network, one that secretly hijacked around 9 million Android devices, along with computers and smart home gadgets. Most people had no idea their devices were being used since the apps worked normally, and nothing looked broken.

But behind the scenes, those devices were quietly routing traffic for strangers, including cybercriminals.

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STOP GOOGLE FROM FOLLOWING YOUR EVERY MOVE

Google says it disrupted a massive residential proxy network that secretly hijacked about 9 million Android and smart devices. (AaronP/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images)

How your device became part of a proxy network

According to Google’s Threat Intelligence Group, the network was tied to a company known as IPIDEA. Instead of spreading through obvious malware, it relied on hidden software development kits, or SDKs, that were embedded inside more than 600 apps. These apps ranged from simple utilities to VPN tools and other free downloads. When you installed one, the app performed its advertised function. But it also enrolled your device into a residential proxy network.

That means your phone, computer or smart device could be used as a relay point for someone else’s internet traffic. That traffic might include scraping websites, launching automated login attempts or masking the identity of someone conducting shady online activity. From the outside, it looked like that activity came from your home IP address. You wouldn’t see it happening, and in many cases, you wouldn’t notice any major performance issues.

Google says in a single seven-day period earlier this year, more than 550 separate threat groups were observed using IP addresses linked to this infrastructure. That includes cybercrime operations and state-linked actors. Residential proxy networks are attractive because they make malicious traffic look like normal consumer activity. Instead of coming from a suspicious data center, it appears to come from someone’s living room.

What Google did to shut it down

Google says it took legal action in a U.S. federal court to seize domains used to control the infected devices and route proxy traffic. It also worked with companies like Cloudflare and other security firms to disrupt the network’s command-and-control systems. Google claims it also updated Play Protect, the built-in Android security system, so that certified devices would automatically detect and remove apps known to include the malicious SDKs.

However, Google also warned that many of these apps were distributed outside the official Play Store. That matters because Play Protect can only scan and block threats tied to apps installed through Google Play. Third-party app stores, unofficial downloads and uncertified Android devices carry far greater risk.

IPIDEA has claimed its service was meant for legitimate business use, such as web research and data collection. But Google’s research suggests the network was heavily abused by criminals. Even if some users knowingly installed bandwidth-sharing apps in exchange for rewards, many did not receive clear disclosure about how their devices were being used.

Google’s investigation also found significant overlap between different proxy brands and SDK names. What looked like separate services were often tied to the same infrastructure. That makes it harder for consumers to know which apps are safe and which are quietly monetizing their connection.

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Hidden software inside more than 600 apps allegedly turned phones and computers into internet relays for cybercriminals. (David Paul Morris/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

7 ways you can protect yourself from Android proxy attacks

If millions of devices can be quietly turned into internet relay points, the big question is, how do you make sure yours isn’t one of them? These steps reduce the risk that your phone, TV box or smart device gets pulled into a proxy network without you realizing it.

1) Stick to official app stores

Only download apps from the Google Play Store or other trusted app marketplaces. Some apps hide small pieces of code that can secretly use your internet connection. These are often spread through third-party app stores or direct app files called “APKs,” which are Android app files installed manually instead of through the Play Store. When you sideload apps this way, you bypass Google’s built-in security checks. Sticking to official stores helps keep those hidden threats off your device.

2) Avoid “earn money by sharing bandwidth” apps

If an app promises rewards for sharing your unused internet bandwidth, that’s a major red flag. In many cases, that is exactly how residential proxy networks recruit devices. Even if it sounds legitimate, you are effectively renting out your IP address. That can expose you to abuse, blacklisting or deeper network vulnerabilities.

3) Review app permissions carefully

Before installing any app, check what permissions it requests. A simple wallpaper app should not need full network control or background execution privileges. After installation, go into your phone’s settings and audit which apps have constant internet access, background activity rights or special device permissions.

4) Install strong antivirus software

Today’s mobile security tools can detect suspicious app behavior, unusual internet activity and hidden background services. Strong antivirus software adds an extra layer of protection beyond what’s built into your device, especially if you’ve installed apps in the past that you’re unsure about. Get my picks for the best 2026 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices at Cyberguy.com.

5) Keep your devices updated

Android security updates patch vulnerabilities that proxy operators may exploit. If you’re using an older phone, tablet or Android TV box that no longer receives updates, it may be time to upgrade. Unpatched devices are easier targets for hidden SDK abuse and botnet enrollment.

6) Use a strong password manager

If your device ever becomes part of a proxy network or is otherwise compromised, attackers often try to pivot into your accounts next. That’s why you should never reuse passwords. A password manager generates long, unique passwords for every account and stores them securely, so one breach does not unlock your email, banking or social media. Many password managers also include breach monitoring tools that alert you if your credentials appear in leaked databases, giving you a chance to act before real damage is done. Check out the best expert-reviewed password managers of 2026 at Cyberguy.com.

7) Remove apps you don’t fully trust

Go through your installed apps and delete or uninstall anything you don’t recognize or haven’t used in months. The fewer apps running on your device, the fewer opportunities there are for hidden SDKs to operate. If you suspect your device has been compromised, consider a full reset and reinstall only essential apps from trusted sources.

ANDROID MALWARE HIDDEN IN FAKE ANTIVIRUS APP

Threat groups and state-linked actors allegedly used compromised devices to mask online activity and automate attacks. (Photo Illustration by Serene Lee/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)

Kurt’s key takeaway

Residential proxy networks operate in a gray area that sounds harmless on paper but can quickly become a shield for cybercrime. In this case, millions of everyday devices were quietly enrolled into a system that attackers used to hide their tracks. Google’s takedown is a major move, but the broader market for residential proxies is still growing. That means you need to be cautious about what you install and what permissions you grant. Free apps are rarely truly free. Sometimes, the product being sold is you and your internet connection.

Have you ever installed an app that promised rewards for sharing bandwidth, or used a free VPN without thinking twice about it? Let us know your thoughts by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

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Technology

Defense secretary Pete Hegseth designates Anthropic a supply chain risk

Published

20 hours ago

February 27, 2026

Press Room

Defense secretary Pete Hegseth designates Anthropic a supply chain risk

This week, Anthropic delivered a master class in arrogance and betrayal as well as a textbook case of how not to do business with the United States Government or the Pentagon.

Our position has never wavered and will never waver: the Department of War must have full, unrestricted access to Anthropic’s models for every LAWFUL purpose in defense of the Republic.

Instead, @AnthropicAI and its CEO @DarioAmodei, have chosen duplicity. Cloaked in the sanctimonious rhetoric of “effective altruism,” they have attempted to strong-arm the United States military into submission – a cowardly act of corporate virtue-signaling that places Silicon Valley ideology above American lives.

The Terms of Service of Anthropic’s defective altruism will never outweigh the safety, the readiness, or the lives of American troops on the battlefield.

Their true objective is unmistakable: to seize veto power over the operational decisions of the United States military. That is unacceptable.

As President Trump stated on Truth Social, the Commander-in-Chief and the American people alone will determine the destiny of our armed forces, not unelected tech executives.

Anthropic’s stance is fundamentally incompatible with American principles. Their relationship with the United States Armed Forces and the Federal Government has therefore been permanently altered.

In conjunction with the President’s directive for the Federal Government to cease all use of Anthropic’s technology, I am directing the Department of War to designate Anthropic a Supply-Chain Risk to National Security. Effective immediately, no contractor, supplier, or partner that does business with the United States military may conduct any commercial activity with Anthropic. Anthropic will continue to provide the Department of War its services for a period of no more than six months to allow for a seamless transition to a better and more patriotic service.

America’s warfighters will never be held hostage by the ideological whims of Big Tech. This decision is final.