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Oklahoma AG warns of fake text message from banks

Attorney General Scott Pruitt says some Oklahoma residents are receiving fraudulent text messages that seek personal financial information.

BY THE ASSOCIATED PRESS | Published: December 5, 2012

Attorney General Scott Pruitt says some Oklahoma residents are receiving fraudulent text messages that seek personal financial information.

The attorney general's Public Protection Unit has issued a consumer alert. It was prompted by several telephone calls from consumers about text messages that appear to be from their bank.

The messages ask recipients to call a telephone number to resolve their account's negative balance. Consumers who call are reportedly asked for their debit card information and Social Security numbers.

Pruitt says the scam is known as “smishing” and it's another way criminals are trying to obtain personal and financial information. The messages appear authentic and can lure consumers into providing information which can cause financial loss and identity theft.