New Trends in Nationwide Money Scams
Monday, January 14th 2008 - Albemarle, NC - Warning the community about the newest trend in money scams and it’s called “Vishing.”
Vishing is a newer variation on an old theme: Out of town and off-shore cyber-criminals are randomly contacting and representing themselves as a reliable source. The intent is to steal confidential information from unsuspecting citizens.
A form of “vishing” uses an automated telephone system which randomly makes calls with a message reporting some problem with your account, such as your debit or credit card has been canceled and requesting you contact a telephone number immediately.
If you call the telephone number, a recorded message will ask you to verify your identity and account information, something like: "This is account verification. Please enter your 16 digit account number, expiration date and PIN ".
These cyber-criminals do not have any information about you and your accounts!!! They are making random calls, assuming that some percentage of people will call back and answer these questions. If you do, the thieves will have your personal credit or ATM/debit card information and potentially your money.
Always remember - the companies (banks, hospitals, credit cards, utilities, merchants, etc.) that already have your financial information should NEVER ask for it in this manner.
Also, banks will NEVER ask customers to verify their sensitive financial information through unsolicited emails or telephone calls.
If you have received one of these telephone calls or have had any other form of unsolicited contact from individuals seeking personal information about your accounts, or if you suspect fraudulent activity concerning any of your accounts, please contact your bank or the company directly using a known telephone number, never a number given you to call them back.
Approximately 8.4 million Identity Theft cases were reported in the United States during 2007. Through education and awareness you can significantly reduce your chances of becoming a victim. Visit the Security Center for more information, advice and examples:
  
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