Wachovia Bank Customers Targeted by Request for PIN to “Reactivate” AccountWallingford, CT - January 20, 2010 – Connecticut Better Business Bureau is warning Wachovia bank debit card holders about a texting scam aimed at securing cardholders’ account numbers, expiration dates and Personal Identification Numbers (PIN).
Consumers have contacted several BBBs to tell them about a text message claiming their Wachovia account has been deactivated and requires action to reactivate it.
The message reads:
“Wachovia Alert – Your card starting with 4828 has been deactivated. Please contact us at 804-715-9368,” a telephone number which is now out of service.
According to complaints, customers who dialed the telephone number were asked by an automated answering service to key in their card number, expiration date and PIN.
The messages are not being sent by Wachovia. A spokeswoman said the bank never asks for personal information in text or e-mail and that any such communication should be considered a scam.
While current information indicates only Wachovia’s clients have been targeted, this scam may hit customers of other financial institutions as well. This is a reminder to consumers to call their financial institution directly if they receive any text, telephone or e-mail requesting personal information.
# # #
Founded in 1928, Connecticut BBB is an unbiased non-profit organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. BBB offers objective advice and a wide range of education on topics affecting marketplace trust. BBB also offers complaint and dispute resolution support for consumers and businesses. Today, 128 BBBs serve communities across the U.S. and Canada, evaluating and monitoring more than three million local and national businesses and charities. For more advice on finding companies and businesses, start your search with trust at www.bbb.org.Howard Schwartz, Communications Director, 203-269-2700, hschwartz@ct.bbb.org