However, SMS has, to date, been limited to the transmission of relatively insensitive information due to the vulnerabilities of a text message.

You can see opposite how texts can be intercepted and the contents read and even changed.

There is little that can be done to prevent text messages being intercepted in those ways, but if the message is encrypted, it will not be able to be read or changed if you do not know what it says to start with.

Not even the guys who invented the software can de-crypt the messages!

Text messages can be:-

1. Snooped - the vast majority of people read other people's messages when they are not around; never leave your mobile unattended.

2. Intercepted - your messages can be "pulled out of the air" by unscrupulous people who wish to read your messages, and you would never know it had happened.

3. Spoofed - this is where someone can send a text message to you and you will believe it has come from one of your friends (your friend’s name and number will appear on your handset). When you reply, your message is received by the spoofer, not your friend - frightening!

4. Modified - this is where your message can be intercepted and changed, so the receiver does not receive the message you actually sent, they receive a modified version. This could be dangerous!

5. Remote Snooping - there is even software available now that allows people to remotely read your text messages, even those you have deleted, and even if your phone is off!

No surprise that Banks and other institutions do not (and should not) send sensitive information via standard text (SMS)