The latest scam being used on consumers is called "vishing." Like phishing, this is a scam criminals use to get your personal information in order to drain money from your bank accounts.  According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation's website, the scam usually happens in one of these two scenarios:

  • In one version, you get the typical e-mail, like a traditional phishing scam. But instead of being directed to an Internet site, you're asked to provide the information over the phone and given a number to call. Those who call the "customer service" number (a VoIP account, not a real financial institution) are led through a series of voice-prompted menus that ask for account numbers, passwords, and other critical information.
  • In another version you're contacted over the phone instead of by e-mail. The call could either be a "live" person or a recorded message directing you to take action to protect your account. Often, the criminal already has some personal information on you, including your account or credit card numbers. That can create a false sense of security. The call came from a VoIP account as well.

Most banks will not contact you and ask for your bank account numbers or your PIN. Most will not ask you to call a number outside of the Quad Cities to give you us information. Most will not ask you to go through an automated system to enter account numbers.

If you are ever in doubt, even if your Caller ID shows our bank name, hang up and call us back. Don't risk being scammed.

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