THE Attorney General's Office is warning island residents to be wary when receiving text messages requesting that individuals forward personal information in order to claim a monetary prize.

According to the AGO’s Consumer Claims Unit, initial reports were received yesterday morning from residents who had been receiving text messages – from either an alleged Nokia Mobile USA promotion agent or a T-Mobile USA promotion agent – stating they won $2 million.

“This is absolutely a scam and I strongly advise the island community to disregard these text messages,” stated Bernie Alvarez, AGO consumer claims advocate. “Report them to our office and delete them after.”

The alleged Nokia promotion agent gave reference number 1862 to local consumers and asked for a name, passport and driver’s license number, age, address, cell phone number, occupation and email address, the AGO reported in a press release. Also requested were consumers’ bank names, account numbers, branch codes and Swift numbers.

“While many of us are concerned and uneasy about giving out our bank account information, oftentimes we think giving out our names, address and things of that nature is not a big deal. Well, it is. These swindlers will take your information and utilize it in another scam down the road. They will legitimize their scams with your information,” Alvarez explained.

Meanwhile, self-professed T-Mobile promotions agent Dan W. gave local consumers reference number 1190 with instructions to email tmusaagent[at]usa.com or call: +27837541515 to claim their winnings.

“These are not legitimate promotions. This is a scam to rob you of your identity and your hard-earned money,” stated Attorney General Lenny Rapadas. “I will reiterate over and over again: If it’s too good to be true, it probably is.”

Residents are urged to verify the company’s legitimacy and to look at their official website. Consumers are further reminded not to send any personal information via text message or email.

Consumers are asked to report all text messages, emails and phone calls of a fraudulent nature to Alvarez at balvarez[at]guamattorneygeneral.com or call 475-3324 ext. 3340.