LAFAYETTE COUNTY, WI (WTAQ) - Sheriff’s officials in southwest Wisconsin are warning folks about the latest scam that’s designed to separate people from their assets.

Lafayette County deputies say some residents have received text alerts saying their debit cards have been deactivated – and they should call a special number to a bank in Darlington, and then punch in their 16-digit card numbers.

Once they do that, the person on the other end will supposedly be too happy to steal their identities.

Sheriff’s officials say real financial institutions and government agencies will not contact people to get their personal information.

Those who get such messages are urged not to respond, and to instead call law enforcement.