Phishing Scams Come via Text Message

Hopefully you're used to phishing scams via email by now - you can spot them in a split second and stick 'em with the rest of your junk mail.

However, scammers continually get more sophisticated. They've used mail, phone calls, and most recently text messages to try and steal your account information. In Des Moines, IA there's been a flood of bogus messages talking about 'unusual account activity'. Of course, then you're supposed to call a number they provide and hand over your personal information.

No matter how you get contacted, you should never contact a bank and give them your personal information unless you're 100% certain that you're actually talking to the bank. How can you be sure? Call the number on your card or statement - not the one provided in a text message or email.

Further reading:

• How to Detect Phishing Scams
• Vishing Scams Dial for Your Dollars
• Text Message Phishing Scam in IA [via Consumerist]