Bank officials and fraud prevention services are warning about scammers that recently have been sending text messages that look legitimate and appear to ask customers about possible card activity. The messages may ask recipients to reply with “yes” or “no” to confirm whether a transaction is legitimate.

Shazam is a United States based interbank network and Electronic Funds Transfer at Point of Sale (EFTPOS) network headquartered in Johnston, Iowa, and operates primarily in the midwestern United States. Shazam is also a single-source provider of debit cards, automated teller machines (ATMs), merchant, marketing, training, risk, fraud prevention and Automated Clearing House (ACH) Network services.

Bank officials warn that responding to the message could lead to a follow-up phone call from scammers attempting to collect personal information. Customers are reminded that Shazam will never ask for sensitive information, including a full card number, account number, or Social Security number through a text message or phone call.

If you receive a fraud alert and are unsure whether it is legitimate, officials recommend not responding to the message. Instead, contact your financial institution directly to verify the information.

Bank officials also remind everyone to stay cautious when receiving unexpected messages about account activity. Taking a moment to verify a request before providing any information can help protect against fraud and identity theft.

Customers can call 217-824-2241 for assistance. For after-hours service, customers can also contact Shazam’s fraud service department directly at 1-833-288-1126.

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