The BBB has heard locally
of consumers receiving calls regarding suspended debit/credit cards in need of
urgent attention. Many consumers receiving these pre-recorded calls claim
being left a number to call back to clear up any card issues.
Your BBB encourages
caution with calls and texts of this nature.
“If your bank is going to
call, they will already have your name, account number and other needed
information on hand”, states Cathy Eichele,
President and CEO of the Tri-State Better Business Bureau.
Victims of bank scams are
often asked to call a toll-free number back to provide information such as
their debit/credit card number, password or other personal information to a
fake automated system. Texts may also be used in these “phishing” schemes.
If you have received a
call or text of this nature, or have concerns about your accounts, your BBB has
some general advice:
- Never reply to a text
message. Doing so ultimately
verifies that the text has been sent to an active cell phone where future texts
will be sent. If the message carries a link, never click on it.
This is an easy way to schemers to spread a viral attack on your phone.
- If you receive a call,
never provide personal or account information. As mentioned above, your bank will have all
information on hand IF a call is placed. Many financial institutions will
contact you in writing instead with these issues. Call your bank for
further verification on any communication(s) received.
- Monitor your bank
account. Review credit/debit
card statements weekly looking for suspicious or unauthorized activity. Report
unauthorized transactions to your bank immediately.
- Change your passwords
and user names on accounts you
know have been breached.
- Order your credit
reports if you have additional
concerns. (Learn more by visiting www.ftc.gov/idtheft).
- As always, utilize your
BBB. The Tri-State BBB has a
consumer education blog where you may search by topic
or review our daily tips. Find us at bbbconsumereducation.com/.
You may also call or email our office with any specific questions at 812-473-0202
or info@evansville.bbb.org.
Reporters: for more information or to schedule an interview
with a local BBB spokesperson, contact Tom Bozikis
at 812-473-0202 ext.114.
