A SMishing* scam targeting credit union members nationwide tells recipients their credit or debit card has been locked or deactivated and instructs them to call a phone number. The text message falsely claims to be from a credit union. All of the text messages include the first four digits of the named credit union's debit card BIN, and a phone number to call.

If you receive such a message, do not call the number or reply to the text. Never give out your personal information in response to an e-mail or text. If issues ever arise relating to your debit or credit card — or if you have concerns about your card status — call only the number(s) listed on the back of your card or contact us immediately.

What is SMiShing? (from Wikipedia.com)

In computing, Smishing is a form of criminal activity using social engineering techniques similar to phishing. The name is derived from "SMs phISHING". SMS (Short Message Service) is the technology used for text messages on cell phones.

Similar to phishing, smishing uses cell phone text messages to deliver the "bait" to get you to divulge your personal information. The "hook" (the method used to actually "capture" your information) in the text message may be a web site URL, however it has become more common to see a phone number that connects to automated voice response system.

This is an example of a (complete) smishing message in current circulation:

In many cases, the smishing message will show that it came from "5000" instead of displaying an actual phone number. This usually indicates the SMS message was sent via email to the cell phone, and not sent from another cell phone.

This information is then used to create duplicate credit/debit/ATM cards. There are documented cases where information entered on a fraudulent web site (used in a phishing, smishing, or vishing attack) was used to create a credit or debit card that was used halfway around the world, within 30 minutes.