MIDLAND -- The next time your cell phone rings, you may want to beware before you pick it up.
Predators are finding new ways of identity theft and they're now doing it through cell phones.
They pretend to be your cell phone company stating you're late on a payment, but police are warning, these people are out to get your money.
Lieutenant George Hutter with the Midland Police Department said it's the latest scam that's sweeping through Mid-Michigan.
"The caller is also telling them to start pressing numbers within their system, which eventually leads to them asking for more information," said Lt. Hutter.
The calls aren’t just from one cell phone carrier, they're computer generated, asking for information about birthdates up to social security numbers.
"It's always recommended to call your financial institutions, let them know about that, as well as run a credit report if you feel like your identity has been compromised,” said Hutter.
Hutter said scammers have gotten the pre-fixes to the 989 area code,and has also seen scam reports in surrounding cities, including Chesaning and Flint.
"This is probably not unique to Midland, without question it's nationwide, it just happens to be to our attention right now,” said Hutter.
Anyone who feels they've given too much information should call their financial institutions directly.
Police say these types of scammers are also known for sending false emails to get documents.
They say it's important to never give out your personal information unless you know for sure you are talking with the legitimate organization.
