Watch Out For This Credit Card Phone Scam

"Fraud Division" Calls Ask For Personal Info

The Hendry County, Florida Sheriff's Office has received a number of reports from citizens who have received phone calls attempting to solicit personal cardholder information. This method of fraud is called phishing. Consumers are being contacted by individuals who give the impression they work for financial institutions and retailers. It is an elaborate and very polished attempt to steal money directly from your account.

Victims have reported they are receiving calls during late night / early morning hours the caller identifies themselves as the Fraud Division and they need to confirm either an ATM or Credit Card number. The victim is then prompted to press 1 to continue. Calls are made to potential victims implying there is a problem with their debit/credit/ATM card or other issue needing personal attention and personal information. For example, "your check card has a hold on it. Press 1 to reactivate and enter your account number." DO NOT RESPOND.

Don't fall victim to this scam. Phishing is when fraudulent attempts are made by phone or email that ask you to confirm personal information, including your PIN, passwords, credit card or debit card account numbers, expiration dates, or other confidential information. When you are being targeted by a phishing scheme, the perpetrator "blasts" calls or emails to thousands of people knowing that a small percentage will respond; the fraud is set in motion when a consumer responds with personal information. The best way to avoid becoming a victim is DO NOT RESPOND.

Reliable financial intuitions or retailers will not ask for personal information or ask you to CONFIRM personal information of any kind in a phone call or email. Personal information is your PIN, passwords, credit card or debit card account numbers, expiration dates, or other confidential information. Never share or verify any personal information over the phone or by email.