Telephone Scams (10/23/08)

It has come to our attention that consumers have received randomly generated automated telephone messages over this past weekend claiming to be from a financial institution. The message states that, for security reasons, their card has been suspended, and asks them to press 1 to speak with the security department.

It is important to note that these are fraudulent calls, not made or authorized by any financial institution, and that the caller has no access to customer information.

If you have received or receive one of these calls do not provide any confidential information. However if you have, you should contact your financial institution immediately.

If you receive this, or any other type of scam, keep the tips below in mind to reduce your risk of loss.

• When seeking assistance with your account, be sure you [i.e. cardholder] initiate the contact, and the institution verifies your identity with questions only you would know.
• To verify whether a call is legitimate, call your bank or visit its website, using phone numbers or internet addresses from your bank statement or account documentation. Do not call back a number provided over the phone or click on a link in an email.
• Most fraudulent communications will include something that will concern or excite the victim.
• If you have been the victim of a scam, file a complaint with local law enforcement.
• Notify your financial institution immediately.

If you have any questions or concerns please do not hesitate to contact us at 800-444-4300.