New Scam Designed to Cull Banking Information Identified

From a press release on the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office Web site.

District Attorney Steve Cooley warned consumers Wednesday of a new “robo-call" scam aimed at getting confidential banking information from unsuspecting victims.

The “robo-calls” play recorded messages claiming to be from major banks.  The messages state there is a problem with the banking network and ask for verification of banking account information, including credit and debit card numbers, along with personal identification numbers.

“Consumers need to be extremely wary of telephone calls requesting sensitive information about banking or credit cards,” Cooley said. “Legitimate banks and financial institutions do not call their customers to request personal identifying information or discuss banking network problems.”

The District Attorney urged consumers to contact law enforcement if they believe they are victims of the fraud.