As technology advances, so do the ways in which scammers try to use that technology against unsuspecting citizens.

Recently, the Ohio Attorney General’s office has received complaints of consumers being called from a 513 Cincinnati area code wanting credit and debit card information. In the past week, more than 100 reports of this scam have been filed.

According to the AG, these calls are likely not even coming from Cincinnati and may be the result of caller ID “spoofing.”

The calls generally begin with a recorded message telling consumers that their credit or debit card has been locked or frozen. Consumers are instructed to “Press 1” to unlock their account and then are told to enter their 16-digit card number. Consumers who supply this information may be at risk for identity theft.

If you get a call like this, but are unsure if it is a scam, simply hang up and call your bank or credit card company. They will have a record whether or not you should be experiencing problems with your card.

If you have received one of these calls and provided your personal information as requested, report the scam immediately and let your bank or credit card company know as you could become the victim of identity theft.

To report a scam, consumers should contact the Ohio Attorney General’s Office at www.OhioAttorneyGeneral.gov or 800-282-0515.

As wonderful as technology is, everyone must take care to ensure their own privacy and being aware of the potential scams is a good first step.