Text messaging is the latest version of bank scams to hit mid-Missouri.

Text messages actually reach a different group of people - from those who get scammed on the phone or by email. But the goal is exactly the same - to steal your identity and your money.

"I was sitting at my computer, and I got a text message alert on my cell phone. And when I opened it up, I looked at the message and it appeared to be from Central Bank," explained Bob Coleman, Columbia resident. He is just one of hundreds who got the phony text, but he didn't fall for the scam.

"Well only because I bank with that bank, the 'centralbservices;' I knew was not a Central Bank website," said Coleman.

"Missourians are smarter than what these scammers think they are. They think they pick on the midwest because they think we're gullible and we certainly are not," said Dan Westhues, Central Bank.

This isn't the first scam using Central Bank's name. It's faced email and phone scams during the past year.

"These crooks show no signs of slowing down and that's why it's so important for bank customers to understand not to be giving out their personal information," explained Travis Ford, consumer educator for attorney general.

Text messages are just the newest flavor in attempts to steal your identity.

"Every time we find a way to combat what's happening to us now, they find a different avenue," said Westhues.

For Coleman, texts are even more troublesome.

"Well it cost me additional money even if I don't fall victim to the scam," explained Coleman. Now he's blocked texting on his phone. He just hopes others don't become victims. "I hope law enforcement finds whoever's behind this, and they serve their time."

Central Bank did get the phony website shut down.

The attorney general's office urges anyone who receives the text not to give out any personal information.

You can report bank scams by calling the consumer protection hotline: (800) 392-8222