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Many of us have been on the look out for scams that target us via mail, the internet, or telephone.

But now, there is a new scam - text messaging scams.

How are scam artists targeting people via text messaging?

If they can't get you by phone, e-mail, or your mailbox, now they will send you a text message that claims to be from your bank, or for a stock deal, or with some type of warning, like trying to convince you that your account has been compromised.

However, not only are these messages fake, but if you respond to them you could find yourself at risk of disclosing personal information, or downloading malicious software to your computer.

How do you know if the message is legitimate or not?

If the message comes out of the blue, without you initiating a request, think twice.

Most banks and businesses will not send you a text message to report a security breach. They will send a letter.

If you are not sure, call your bank or the business at a number that you know to be legitimate.

What can people do to avoid falling victim and what should they do if they get a suspicious phone call?

• Be selective about who you give your cell number to. You may want to think twice before providing the number for contest entries or for other marketing purposes.

• Although you can register your cell phone on a do not call list, keep in mind that many scam artists do not care if your number is registered. They will call you regardless.

• Resist the temptation to immediately respond to the number or web address listed in the message. This could cause you to download malicious software on to your computer or cause you to get unknowingly hooked in a scam. Only use phone numbers and web addresses that you know are legitimate.

• If you get one or more unsolicited text messages, report the problem to your cell phone company and ask for a credit.

If you fear that you may have fallen victim to a text messaging scam, contact your bank, cell phone carrier, and police immediately.