Oklahoma Attorney General Warns About Texting Scam

The Oklahoma Attorney General's Public Protection Unit issued a consumer alert Tuesday for a text message scam that claims recipients have won a Wal-Mart gift card. The scam uses the store's name to lure unsuspecting consumers into providing personal and financial information.

These types of scams delivered via mobile phones are known as smishing. Con-artists randomly send out messages in an attempt to obtain information, and often go to great lengths to make the messages appear authentic.

Wal-Mart recently posted an alert on its website declaring the messages fake and that the company doesn't participate in these types of promotions or request personal information in this manner.

"Always be cautious when asked to give out personal information, especially when you didn't initiate the contact," Attorney General Scott Pruitt said. "When in doubt it's best to verify or disregard the request."

Attorney General Pruitt said consumers increase the likelihood of getting spam messages when they sign up for mobile apps, because they've increased the number of people who have their information.

Find tips on avoiding fraud or report a fraudulent text!

Consumers also can call the Attorney General's Public Protection Unit at (405) 521-2029.