If it is number that you do not recognize I personally would not open it, it maybe quite innocent and just someone trying to sell you something...However in all the years I have had phones with the android OS have never had a problem but am not saying if you were to go into pornographic sites something COULD happen so just be careful
stay safe Happy New Year

 

Rule #1. Never open attachments from someone you don't trust. Phone or computer.

Almost everything is susceptible to something malicious, with varying levels of maliciousness. More likely to be malware than a virus.

You can try two things. First google the phone #. If that doesn't tell you anything, text back a "who is this?". If neither of those turn up someone you want to be able to contact you, block the number or try this:
A trick I used for years is to create a contact called Spam. I just kept adding numbers to it, up to the limit of numbers a single contact could have. Then create another contact with a similar name (spam, spammer, etc). When you get a message or call from that number, that name shows up and you know to ignore or delete it.

 

No, I never open a message from stranger, it will just put your phone on risk.

 

Speaking of this.... Anyone found a way to unsubscribe from an annoying chain of too-often SMS group messages?

 

Google the topic. Both viruses and malware are spread through SMS attachments.

 

found this link recently, about spamming your phone contacts, which could cost you money if you're not on an unlimited data plan... worth reading...
Beware: Android virus uses your phone to spread spam

 

I hate group messages!!!!