Credit Card Alert-Unusual Purchase Pattern
Individuals call claiming to be a person calling from the Security and Fraud Department at VISA along with a false Badge number.  They will state that your card has been flagged for an unusual purchase pattern and they’re calling to verify. Typically, they’ll state ” This would be on your VISA card which was issued by (name of bank)” and ask “Did you purchase an Anti-Telemarketing Device for $497.99 from a Marketing company based in Arizona?"  When you say "No", the caller continues with, "Then we will be issuing a credit to your account.  This is a company we have been watching and the charges range from $297 to $497, just under the $500 purchase pattern that flags most cards.  Before your next statement, the credit will be sent to (gives you your address), is that correct?"

When the client answers "yes", the caller continues - "I will be starting a Fraud investigation.  If you have any questions, you should call the 1- 800 number listed on the back of your card (1-800-VISA) and ask for Security. Afterwards, the caller states that “ You will need to refer to this Control Number”.  The caller then gives you a 6 digit number and asks if you’ll need them to read it again?"

IMPORTANT-What to Watch For:   The caller then says, "I need to verify you are in possession of your card".  They'll ask you to "turn your card over and look for some numbers".  There are 7 numbers; the first 4 are part of your card number, the next 3 are the security Numbers' that verify you are the possessor of the card.  These are the numbers you sometimes use to make Internet purchases to prove you have the card.  The caller will ask you to read the 3 numbers to him.  After you tell the caller the 3 numbers, they'll say, "That is correct, I just needed to verify that the card has not been lost or stolen, and that you still have your card.  Do you have any other questions?"  After you say No, the caller then thanks you and states, "Don't hesitate to call back if you do", and hangs up.

What the scammers want is the 3-digit PIN number on the back of the card.
Don't give it to them.  Instead, tell them you'll call VISA or Master card directly for verification of their conversation.  VISA will never ask for anything on the card as they already know the information since they issued the card! 

What To Do: Credit card customers should never give out the 3-digit security code listed on their credit cards unless they have initiated the call or transaction. Anytime a customer receives a phone call or e-mail requesting sensitive credit card information, the customer should end the communication. Then call the 800 number on the card and request to be connected to the Fraud/Security Department.

Please pass this on to all your family and friends.  By informing each other, we protect each other.