Avoid The Latest Text Message Scam

At Peak Wealth Planning, the security of your personal information is very important to us, and we want to help you keep it protected.

Protect your credit card information.

We recently discovered a text message scam and wanted to make sure you are armed with everything you need to know to avoid falling victim to it. This scam involves sending text messages alerting you that your credit card account has been restricted and that you'll need to call a phone number to regain full account access.

Once you call the provided number, the scammer will attempt to obtain sensitive information, such as your:

• Date of birth

• Social Security Number

• Mother's maiden name

• Card account number

• Card expiration date

• 3-Digit security code 

If you receive a suspicious communication that appears to be from your credit card company trying to persuade you to provide the type of personal information listed above, please call the number on the back of your credit card to verify if it is legitimate.

Awareness and education are your best defenses against scams

Always proceed with caution and confirm requests are legitimate before responding to someone asking for personal information, money, or gift cards to resolve an urgent, yet fictitious scenario — such as a block on your account or the threat of an arrest. Please note, it is common for scammers to pose as a person you can trust, such as a family member, government official, someone you do business with, or a charity.

Please visit the U.S. Federal Trade Commission's Identify Theft Info page to learn more about ways to protect your personal information.

Do you think that you've fallen victim to a scam?

If you think you may have been a victim of a scam or that your personal information has been compromised, you can place a fraud alert with your credit bureau by contacting one of the major credit reporting agencies.

• Experian: 1-888-397-3742

• TransUnion: 1-800-916-8800

• Equifax: 1-800-685-1111

You can also visit the U.S. Federal Trade Commission's Consumer Information to sign up for scam alerts, get information on the latest scams, and learn how to prevent yourself from becoming a victim.

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About the Author

Peter Newman is a Chartered Financial Advisor (CFA) and president of Peak Wealth Planning. He works with individuals nationwide that have accumulated wealth through company stock, ESOP shares, real estate, or running a business. Peter applies his unique background to help clients achieve their specific goals and enjoy peace of mind.

Peak Wealth Planning provides concierge services to meet your wealth management needs. Services include: financial planning, investment management, esop diversification, retirement income, insurance and estate planning advice, Peak Wealth Planning is a fee only financial advisor based in Champaign, Illinois.