Home Knoxville Press Releases 2009 FBI Warns of New Vishing Attack Targeting Debit Card Customers
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FBI Warns of New Vishing Attack Targeting Debit Card Customers

FBI Knoxville February 26, 2009
  • Public Affairs Specialist Joyce McCants (865) 544-0751

The Johnson City office of the FBI has received numerous reports of a new vishing scheme targeting debit card customers. Multiple victims have been identified as bank customers of the Happy Valley Credit Union. Vishing scams are designed to persuade consumers to divulge Personally Identifiable Information ( PII ) i.e. account numbers, social security account numbers, etc. by falsely claiming the customer’s account has been suspended, deactivated, or terminated. Victims are then asked to enter PII via an automated response using their telephone keypad.

If you believe you have been a victim of this scheme by providing PII, you should immediately notify your bank. Additionally, you may file a complaint at the Internet Crimes Complaint Center at www.IC3.gov.

Consumers always need to be alert when responding to requests for PII. Personal information should be carefully guarded. Never respond to unsolicited requests. Providing your PII will compromise your identity.