United Bank of Union customers getting hit by phone phishing scam

Phishing attempts from criminals are again targeting bank members, with United Bank of Union customers falling prey to a continued phone scam. Criminals are using an automatic phone dialing program aimed at both landlines and mobile phones, with a warning message that customer bank cards are no longer functional.

Criminals behind the scam are somewhat clever, with victims either receiving automated calls - or in-person "support staff" calls - and debit card numbers and PIN numbers would be required. Furthermore, other victims were asked to provide their Social Security numbers to help "verify" personal information.

"Several people fell victim to this fraud and gave up their information to the answering machine," said Mike Elliott, United Bank of Union President, in a statement to local media. "Community Banks do not phone call for customer card numbers, PIN numbers or Social Security Numbers."

A study released earlier in the year found that one-third of phishing attacks are directed towards financial institutions and their customers.