Phishing scam warning issued in Mississippi

March 11th, 2010 - 1:20 am ICT by BNO News  

JACKSON, MISSISSIPPI (BNO NEWS) – Attorney General Jim Hood issued a to warning credit union members of a suspected phishing scam on Wednesday.

Phishing is a computer-related scam that uses email, pop-up messages or cell phone text messages to mislead the consumer into revealing their credit card numbers, bank or credit union account numbers, social security numbers, passwords or other personal information.

Scammers frequently pose as legitimate credit card companies, credit unions, banks, and other financial institutions, hoping victims will fall for their deceit and provide them with personal information.

Credit Union members have contacted the Attorney General’s Office about phone calls and text messages they are receiving regarding their accounts.

“One consumer that called our office actually contacted the 800 number and later found that her account had been wiped clean by the phishers,” said Attorney General Jim Hood. “It is important to remember that no reputable financial institution is going to send a text message or ask for your information.”

Individuals should avoid giving personal information through emails, pop-ups, or text messages, considering that legitimate companies do not ask for this information. Only contact an organization through a telephone number you know is genuine and never follow internet links.

It is also important to keep track of your financial records, reviewing credit card and bank statements as soon as you receive them for any suspicious monetary activity.

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