New Text Scam Hits Missouri Banks—Check Your Balance

Scams seem like something that only happens to other people, but the truth is different. Missouri banks are warning of a new scam that is emptying accounts and I can verify what they say is true since I've just received the text scam attempt myself.

What do the texts look like that are now robbing many in Missouri?

Here's a screenshot directly from my phone that shows one of the variations of this new scheme. It infers that there's been a sizable charge from your bank account in Missouri to PayPal. I received this just last week.

The Bank of Missouri has issued warnings about this

This exact text scam attempt resulted in 5 warnings from The Bank of Missouri about how you can tell this is an attempt to rob you blind.

• Message comes from unknown number
• Name on message is abbreviated
• Scare tactics by inferring large amount has been withdrawn
• Odd grammar
• Link to "resolve the issue" is provided

What happens if you tap the link in the text?

It leads to a form that will ask you to confirm your bank account number and routing address. It might also ask for login information. If you provide that information, you can count on the fact that the bad guys will transfer whatever funds are in your account to theirs and it's very difficult to reverse once it's happened. Many banks in Missouri offer charge disputes that might help you almost immediately, but the final resolution might not happen for weeks.