New Phishing / Smishing Scam: Text message tells targets to call 1-202-729-8214, says “your ATM card has been suspended.”

December 17, 2008

There seems to be a new phishing / smishing scam going around.

How the scam works:

(1) People receive a text message reading as follows:

“This is an automated message from Bank-Fund Staff F.C.U.. Your ATM card has been suspended. To reactivate call urgent at 1-202-729-8214.”

(2) Upon calling this number, targets are prompted by an automated recording to enter their bank card number, expiration date, and PIN number.

Who has been affected?

This scam seems to be affecting primarily Sprint cell phone customers. But, even if you are not a Sprint customer, you should still take the precautions described below.

Most targets report that they do not have (and never have had) a Bank Fund Staff Federal Credit Union account. It is unclear why the scammers referenced BFSFCU in their message.

What to do If you receive the scam text message:

Do not call the 1-202-729-8214 number.
If you suspect that your bank or credit union card has been affected, call your financial institution directly. Do not use the 1-202-729-8214 number to try to contact your bank or credit union.
If you do call the 1-202-729-8214 number, DO NOT ENTER YOUR BANK CARD INFORMATION.
Report the scam text message and / or file a complaint with: