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Tuesday, November 15, 2011

Beware of New Cell Phone Scam

There is a new cell phone scam out there called smishing. It is similar to another scam called phishing. This new scam involves scammers sending you a text message to tell you that your bank account has been frozen and to text or call back to unfreeze your account. Whenever you do so, they will ask for information such as your PIN number, social security number, and others so that they will have access to your account.

At times they will also offer special deals, mortgage assistance, or other enticing offers.
It is extremely important that you do not reply to the number that has reached you, either by calling or texting. If you do, you will let them know that the number is active and they will send you more offers. Don't click on any unknown links that are sent to you.

If you suspect anything could be wrong with your bank account, contact your bank separately and ask them. Also, calling your phone provider and blocking the number that is reaching you would be a good thing to do.

http://www.kvue.com/home/BBB-warns-consumers-to-avoid-smishing-scams-133822448.html

3 comments:

  1. This is interesting. I have been receiving weird phone calls from random numbers that come up from random states like Montana and Illinois. I've tried calling back before and it just gives me a busy signal. I'll be sure to block those numbers.

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  2. I think that it's good to know about these scams, but let's be honest. Why would you ever give personal information over the phone or via email?? I've gotten calls and emails before trying to scam me, but that's when I call my bank to see what the problem is. We just have to use our brains when dealing with stuff via technology.

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  3. It may seem that way to some people, but also realize that so many people now use mobile banking and make transactions regularly using their phones, through calls and through texting. If no one was falling for it, then scammers wouldn't be doing it, you can bet on that.

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