Header_CustomerAlert_09-09

Text Message Scam Rings Through Wisconsin

August 16, 2011

 

WISCONSIN RAPIDS (WFXS) --  People with cell phones across Central Wisconsin have gotten fraudulent text messages claiming their bank card has been deactivated.

The text message claims it was a Paper City Savings Alert, and that they needed to immediately contact the number on the screen to re-activate it.

"When you call that number they ask you for your account information and your PIN number and if you do it they have access to your account at that point," Larry Turba, President of Paper City Savings Bank said.

Turba said the scam did look convincing.

"They tried to make it look as legitimate as possible, but it certainly is not," Turba explained.

People all over Central Wisconsin received messages. Many, didn't even have Paper City Savings accounts.

"Generally your bank wouldn't call or e-mail you something about deactivation. It would be hand written or they would ask you to come in," Turba explains.

Wisconsin Rapids resident Elise Moyer said she knew it was a scam as soon as her friend received a text message.

"I told them not to respond. I said they should report it, call the bank, but definitely not answer," Moyer said.

Turba urges everyone to protect their personal information and never give information out to anyone that you aren't completely sure about.

"A financial institution will never ask you for your PIN. It is a truly personal number that you should never give out," Turba warns.

Currently the scam numbers have all been disconnected. If you do receive a message please contact the Wood County Sheriff's Department.

Watch the video

Source: WFXS, MyFoxWausau.com  

Posted: Aug 15, 2011 6:25 PM CDT  

By Emily Neubauer, Multimedia Journalist


Footer_CustomerAlert_09-09