Debit card scam in NC, VA nets $100,000 for thieves

RALEIGH, N.C. — Authorities say thieves using text messages have scammed around $100,000 from Gateway Bank customers in North Carolina and Virginia.

North Carolina Attorney General Roy Cooper says customers have been receiving fake text messages saying their debit cards have been deactivated. They're then instructed to call a phone number and enter in their debit card number, expiration date and PIN number.

The thieves use that information to make new debit cards and withdraw money. Withdrawals have been made as far away as California.

At least 10 different phone numbers have been used by the thieves, mostly with North Carolina and Virginia area codes.

Gateway Bank officials and Cooper tell people that if they get the messages, they should contact police.