MUKWONAGO - Hundreds of people have reported getting scam calls this week. It's a large-scale operation called "vishing," and whoever is behind it appears to be targeting southeastern Wisconsin.

When the scammers called Deanne Conrad's husband claiming to be from their bank, she knew something was wrong. That's because Deanne works at a bank- Citizens Bank of Mukwonago.

"When I heard what he was talking about, I said right away, "Do not give any information," Conrad said.

She did the right thing.

Some of the calls involve a live person, some are automated.

The message Conrad got said, "We regret to inform you that your debit card has been restricted for shopping and ATM usage. To reactivate your debit card for shopping and ATM usage, please call our security department."

The scammers claim to be from your bank, tell you there's a problem with your account, and then get you to tell them your account number or other personal information.

The scam is very common by e-mail, where it is referred to as "phishing." This variant of the scam, however, is done by phone, and is referred to as "vishing." The "v" comes from "voice," since voice mail is often used.

This week alone, customers in Milwaukee, West Allis, Racine, Burlington and Mukwonago have reported the calls.

So how do you tell the difference between a real call from your bank and a scam?

"A bank, if there is going to be a problem with the card, would never ask them to provide the information over the phone," said Charlie Miller, CEO of Citizens Bank of Mukwonago.

The real problem is catching the scammers. They often use automated calls or call from blocked numbers, so they are hard to track down. If you receive one of these calls, do not give out any personal information and notify your bank and local police.