Mobile Device Messaging Scams

Avoid Text SCAMS - DON'T Reply

Mobile device scams and malicious activity continue to target mobile device users more than ever before. There is a lot of sensitive information on mobile devices and fraudsters are using methods other than email to gain access to this sensitive information - like text messaging, messaging platform apps, gaming, and social media apps.

There have been recent text messaging scams to both IBC and Non-IBC mobile customers. The messages may vary but the purpose is the same, to get the recipient to either respond to the message or to take action by calling a number in the message in order to gain personal sensitive information like account or card numbers.

If you receive a text message you weren't expecting, and it asks you to give personal information, or reply YES or NO, or STOP to Opt Out of the message, don't click on any links or respond to the message. IBC Bank or any LEGITIMATE company would not ask for information about your account or card number by text message. If you think the message might be legitimate, contact the company directly using a listed phone number or contact information on the company website. If the message contains a phone number to call, do not use that number.

Unfortunately, IBC does not have a way to stop or block the phishing text messages; this is dependent on the mobile provider. Below are some ways to report suspicious text messages:

Alert AT&T by forwarding the suspicious text to 7726 on your device. Messages forwarded to 7726 are free. If you're not able to view the number, forward the entire message to abuse@att.net.
You can forward a suspicious text message to the Anti-Phishing Working Group at reportphishing@apwg.org or report it to the FTC.
Go to Federal Trade Commission or IdentityTheft.gov to learn more.

General Links on Texting Scams and how to report from AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon:
https://www.att.com/support/article/my-account/KM1051831/
https://www.verizon.com/about/account-security/smishing-and-spam-text-messages
https://www.t-mobile.com/support/plans-features/help-with-scams-spam-and-fraud