Takoma Park Police are warning residents of a phishing scam involving fake bank text messages.
“If you receive a text like this photo: A “citizens alert – your banking is limited” – it’s a scam that aims to steal your information and identity and is making its rounds around the country. Don’t fall for it!”, reads an emailed community advisory.
“The phishing scam, a.k.a. “smishing,” is where cybercriminals send text messages to get you to click a malicious link or provide personal data. Based on the information they obtain, cybercriminals can steal your identity, empty your bank account, or install malware in your phone.
“Ignore the message! Do not click on suspicious links, and don’t provide personal-identifying information. Please share this information with your friends and family, especially the elderly who can be more susceptible to this type of crime.
“If you have a question for your bank, call them directly and speak to a representative.”
TPPD Graphic