New Telephone Scam Reported

New Telephone Scam Reported

A new credit card phone scam has been reported by a few Maine credit

unions. This scam has been targeted to VISA and MasterCard holders where

the callers do not ask for a card number, they already have it. The caller

introduces themselves as “so and so from the Security and Fraud

Department at VISA/MasterCard.” They proceed to give a badge number and

the phone number that is on the back of all VISA/MasterCards implying that

the consumer can call back to make sure that the caller is legitimate. The

caller continues to explain that the consumer’s card has been flagged for an

unusual purchase pattern and that they are calling to verify a charge. After

the consumer says they did not authorize those charges, the caller explains

that the credit card company will issue a credit to their account. The caller

also explains that this is a company they have been watching and the

charges range from $297 to $497, just under the $500 purchase pattern

that flags most cards. The caller continues to provide the consumer with

their address, telephone number, and reiterates calling VISA/MasterCard with

any questions. The caller then asks the consumer for the three digits on the

back of the credit card, to verify that the card is in their possession. This

number is the security PIN for the credit card and is the only way a scammer

can complete a charge. Never give this number to anyone. Once the caller

hangs up the scammer can complete any transaction.

For Further information, please contact our VISA department at 443-5531.