The state Division of Consumer Protection has issued a warning to consumers about the dangers of unsolicited messages on cellphones from banks and phone service providers, which can really be attempts at identity theft.
The text messages ask recipients to click on an imbedded link or call a phone number. People are asked for personal identifiable information when they reply, such as a PIN or Social Security number.
The Consumer Protection office advises against ever sharing personal information, because legitimate companies would never seek it.
http://liarcatchers.com/identity_theft_investigation.html
And if such a message is received, file a complaint with the phone service provider and the Federal Trade Commission at ftccomplaintassistant.gov.
Phone service providers will also block the sender’s number from your phone at no charge.
For more information about scam prevention and mitigation, contact the New York Department of State, Division of Consumer Protection, at 518-474-8583 or at dos.ny.gov.
