Northway Bank cautions customers about credit card scam

Northway Bank is warning the public about a new and financially dangerous credit card scam involving individuals who already have the victims credit card number.The scheme works in this way: An individual (who provides his name) calls and introduces himself to a credit card holder as a representative of the Security and Fraud Department at VISA. After also revealing his badge number, he indicates that the cardholder, whose card number he already knows, has a VISA card that has been flagged as the result of an unusual purchase pattern.The caller goes on to explain that hes calling to verify the purchase of a $497.99 Anti-Telemarketing Device. Upon the cardholder responding that he/she did not order such a device, the caller proceeds to explain that he can authorize a credit to the customers account if he/she provides the caller with the three-digit PIN number that appears on the back of the card.Cardholders typically share these three numbers with merchants during online or telephone purchases. However, they should not share it in situations such as these. Once the customer reveals the three-digit PIN number, the caller has all the tools needed to incur unauthorized charges on the cardholders VISA card.In the event that you have been a victim of this scam or if this scenario sounds similar to a situation you recently encountered, contact your credit card company and local police department."Again, we are seeing that credit card fraud is not something that is isolated to large cities, said Information Security Officer Michelle Clark. At Northway Bank, we take pride in providing such security tips to members of our communities. As always, customers can protect themselves from these and other phone schemes by: Asking for the callers complete name and call-back number. Make a note of this information. Asking for written information in the mail. Not releasing their checking, savings or debit card account number or any other financial information over the telephone. Calling a bank employee or visiting a branch location to report suspicious inquiries.