May 28, 2009
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News: Text Messaging CC Scam
Along with new technology comes a creative criminal idea on how to take advantage of innocent individuals with identity theft and credit card scams. A recent cell phone text messaging scam was reported. Apparently, the consumer receives a text message that his/her debit or credit card has experienced unusual activity. The message instructs the individual to call a phone number and enter his account number and personal identification number (PIN) to learn more about the issue. The phone number that had been used has been seized by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) while an investigation is in progress. A message has been placed on the phone to any consumer who had received the text message alerting them to the debit and credit card scheme.
Authorities have contacted banks and have been told that they never use text messaging to contact any customer requesting information. Bank officials reiterate that they will not ask you for this information because they already have it. Criminals are asking for the information because they do not have it. They cannot get it from the bank; they can only get it from you. The authorities continue to warn all individuals that they should never give out their credit card information to anyone they do not know. Identity thieves use a number of methods to illegally obtain information which includes: smishing, text messaging; phishing, email based; and vishing, voice mail based. They then use this information to open up new credit card accounts and use them to get cash advances or make high ticket purchases.
It is expected that the text messaging bandits will continue their attempts to illegally obtain the credit card information by using additional phone numbers. Regardless of whom they claim to be, individuals should never call the number. Consumers should also be aware of an additional text messaging scam where the message will say that your account has been deactivated. The Federal Trade Commission warns everyone to be aware of these identity theft schemes. Individuals can visit their website at www.ftc.gov/idtheft for complete details. The YCSO Crime Prevention Coordinator also has information available on id theft prevention.