New scams aiming to drain local bank accounts are making the rounds in McMinnville. 

Security Federal Savings Bank was notified by customers there is a scam going around targeting local cellphone numbers inquiring about information related to customer bank accounts. Bank representatives say they will never send cellphone texts asking customers to provide any information about their account or debit card numbers. 

Anyone who feels they may have been scammed needs to contact the bank’s customer service number. Security Federal encourages everyone to be very careful when someone contacts you about your bank account.

A separate scam making its way around Middle Tennessee also uses text messages, and the recent hot weather, in an attempt to get money. The scammer sends a text pretending to be with a power company. 

The text says due to the recent soaring temperatures, electric bills will be much higher this month and some of the bill needs to be paid now by credit or debit card or the customer will risk disconnection of service.

The Better Business Bureau reports that a common text going around reads, “Attention. Fraudulent activity has been detected on your account. Act Now.” Another version implies changes have been made to the customer’s account and says to call a number if you did not make this request. 

The scammer will urge consumers to call an unfamiliar number provided or will send a fake link to login into their online account. If the number is called you may be asked to repeat personal bank information to verify your identity.

The scammer may also send a fake link that can lead to a fake website, or the link may install software on your phone that will give them access to personal data. The link could lead to a near identical website, but after entering your information the scammer then has access to the account.

The BBB also says to ignore text instructions to text “Stop” or “No” to prevent future texts because this is a common ploy by scammers to confirm they have a real number.  

The BBB recommends verifying any potential issues by calling the company’s phone number directly instead of the number that called or texted. 

The BBB says never give personal information to unsolicited callers. Regardless of the caller, never give personal information to verify your identity and if it does not seem right, hang up and call the company at a number you know to be correct.