Text Message Scam Uses Local Area Code to Target Nebraskans

LINCOLN – Attorney General Bruning issued a consumer alert for Nebraskans to be wary of scam text messages from ALERT@bankaccount that instruct receivers to call (402) 817-4153 to reactivate a suspended debit card. The Attorney General’s Office has received 7 reports of this scam in the Lincoln and Omaha area today, mostly from Verizon customers. 
“Personal information like bank, debit or credit card numbers should never be given to unknown people or businesses,” said Bruning. “And, don’t be fooled by local area codes – those numbers could be routed anywhere.” 
Calls to the number provided in the scam texts route to an automated system claiming to be a “credit union center” with 24-hour activation services. Callers are instructed to input their debit card number for reactivation. Once a scammer has access to a consumer’s account information, it can be used to make fraudulent purchases or withdraw money from the account. 
Nebraskans who have responded to this scam are encouraged to use a trusted number to contact debit card issuers immediately. In addition, notification should be filed with the three major credit bureaus – TransUnion, Experian and Equifax. 
For more information or to file a complaint, contact the Attorney General’s Office Consumer Protection Division at ago.ne.gov or 800-727-6432.