A Richmond area television station today alerted citizens to a text messaging fraud scheme, intended to obtain personal identifying information and bank/credit card information.

Called "smishing", text messages have been sent in an effort to get cellphone users to either text their personal identifying information (name, date of birth and/or Social Security Number), bank account information or credit card account information back to a "designated" text number, or to link to a website and "update" their account information.  To bolster the importance of the text message, it may include a statement that the account is in jeopardy and it is critical that the account holder reply.

This is another method of defrauding persons out of money.  Under no circumstances should you respond to any text message from a number you do not know, nor should you link to any website indicated in such a text message.  If you did not initiate the contact, protect yourself and do not release your personal information, bank account information or credit card information.