March 4, 2014

Banking Commissioner Issues Consumer Alert
Regarding Reports of Telephone Scam

The Department of Banking has received reports today that Connecticut residents are the targets of a telephone scam requesting private account information.

“It has come to my attention that Connecticut residents have received automated telephone calls that appear to be from a bank indicting that their debit card has been frozen,” stated Banking Commissioner Howard F. Pitkin.  “This is a scam, and anyone who receives such a call should immediately hang up the phone.”

The voice on this “robocall” then asks whoever answers the call to press one, at which time they are led to believe they have reached the Security Department of the bank.  At this point they are instructed to enter their private debit card number and additional information about their account.

Commissioner Pitkin advised, “Financial institutions would never call you ask you to provide such personal information over the telephone, and certainly not with an automated call.  If you are unsure, hang up and call your bank directly using the number provided on your card.”

If you believe you were a victim, contact your bank or financial institution immediately.  Contact the Department of Banking, Consumer Affairs Division, at 1-800-831-7225, or visit our website for more information about banking scams and fraud.