D.A.'s Office Warns Public of "Robo-Call" Banking Information Scam

A consumer alert was issued today warning Los Angeles County residents to be wary of telephone calls requesting sensitive banking information.

These “robo-calls” play recorded messages that claim to be from major banks. The message states that there is a problem with the “banking network” and asks call recipients to verify account information, debit card numbers and/or credit card numbers linked to their bank account.

Criminals then use this information to take over the victims’ bank accounts, apply for credit cards or obtain cash using victims’ legitimate debit card numbers and personal identification numbers (PINs).

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

Cooley says that recipients of these calls should not provide any information. Instead, they should contact the customer service department of their bank in person, over a land-line telephone or online after confirming their Internet connection is secure and their normal security user name, password and site keys have been displayed.

If consumers believe they are victims of this fraud, they should contact local law enforcement.

• Cerritos residents can call the at (562) 860-0044.
• Artesia residents can call the Lakewood Sheriff's Station at (562) 623-3500.