Another Day, Another Scam; Banks Issue Alert

With every advance in technology, criminals also advance.  It hasn't taken them long to find a way to utilize the ubiquitous text message to phish.

It's less phishing and more social engineering but it can be effective.  Cell phone users have been getting text messages telling them their debit or credit card has been locked.  To unlock it they must text back their account number.

There is so much wrong with this, I don't know where to start.  First, your financial institution is not going to text you, unless you've asked them to set you up for messaging.  Second, presumably they already have your account number, why would they need it from you?  Third, the bank will only want to handle these matters by voice or face-to-face.  If you get a call tell them you'll call them back and then call your bank.

If you receive a fake call or text you are asked to retain the information and notify police.