Scam Alert. (Credit: CrimewatchPA)
Scam victims should inform the Office of Attorney General’s Bureau of Consumer Protection by calling 1-800-441-2555.
Pennsylvania Attorney General Michelle Henry is warning residents about a phishing scam becoming prevalent during the holiday season.
In this scam, an individual contacts a victim about claims of fraudulent activity on the victim’s banking account to try and access personal data, according to authorities.
Often, the scammers will give a phone number for the victim to call or instruct the victim to send an email or text message, police said.
Then, the scammers ask login credentials to financial accounts, account numbers, and other personal identifiable information, like a Social Security Number, authorities warn.
Financial institutions will never ask for account information or login credentials through a phone call, text message or email, police said.
Should anyone receive such communication, do not respond and immediately contact the number on the back of your debit or credit card for customer service. You can also call your financial institution’s local branch office and verify they made contact with you.
Victims of scams can inform the Office of Attorney General’s Bureau of Consumer Protection by visiting https://www.attorneygeneral.gov/submit-a-complaint/scams-complaint/, emailing scams@attorneygeneral.gov, or calling the office at 1-800-441-2555.
