Phishing, vishing, SMishing

December 26, 2:06 PMScam ExaminerKarin Malchow

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This month cell phones are receiving a new wave of text messages purporting to be from credit unions.  A typical message reads:  Your ATM card has been suspended.  Please call 1-800-XXXX to reactivate. 

Sometimes they suggest a data security breach occurred.  They don't mention they are the ones trying to commit the breach.

Like phishing (email) and vishing (voice mail), SMishing attempts identity theft.  The sender impersonating a financial institution asks for personal information in order to open accounts in your name or access your current accounts.

Even if things seem legitimate, don't immediately use the number or address provided when contact is unsolicited.  Just to be safe, look up and contact the published phone number, email or address of the bank or credit union before responding to any message, regardless of the messenger.