Texting Scam Targeting Donors
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Texting Scam Targeting Donors

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July 26, 2016

Have you recently received a text with a similar message?

Be aware there is a new texting scam happening now that is using United Way's name to gain donors trust. These mobile phishing scams are another way for scammers to prey on a person’s sense of wanting to do good bundled with the enticement of receiving a gift. In this case, a $5 Target Gift Card.

The focus of the new scam is to gain your trust with the gift card and then direct to a website that asks for personal information to sign up for multiple offers, or ask for a donation to United Way. Once you enter your information it will be compromised. If the scam is successful in getting you to put your credit card information in, not only will your donation not go to where you expected, your credit card information (including expiration data and CVV number) will be compromised.

What can you do about unwanted text messages? Check out these 3 tips.

  • Delete unwanted text messages that ask you to enter a special code, or to confirm or provide personal information. Legitimate companies won’t send you a text asking for sensitive information.
  • Don’t click on links in the text message. Links can take you to spoof sites that look real but will steal your personal information.
  • Report spam texts to your carrier. Copy the original message and forward it to 7726 (SPAM) free of charge, if you are an AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, or Sprint subscriber.

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