We normally think of phishing attempts as those that come through your email or from malicious websites, but they can also come from phone solicitations as well. Case in point, today we received an alert that several consumers have received automated phone calls telling them their credit or debit cards have been locked or temporarily suspended. Conveniently enough, the message also invites them to enter information over the phone to solve the problem. BBB warns this not to be done.

In fact, this scenario is an elaborate phishing scheme designed to steal credit and debit card information. The consumer is asked to input their card number or other personal information to unlock it or alert their bank. In actuality, any information they submit is stolen by the scammer. Consumers have reported the automated calls originated from a 512 area code, but recently the District Attorney in Colorado stated the phone numbers are generated randomly and could come form anywhere.

The important thing you should remember is that your bank will never send you an automated message if your credit or debit card is frozen. Even if you think the message is real, do not follow the prompted instructions. Instead, call your bank directly to make sure you are not being taken advantage of. Make sure to report the incident to your bank and BBB so word can get out.