Vishing
You may have heard on the news that there has been an increase in scam calls or “Vishing”.
Vishing, or Voice phishing, is when criminals use social engineering over the phone to trick you into giving them personal or confidential information or even access to your computer. They may speak to you directly or leave a concerning voicemail message. Social engineering is the psychological manipulation of people to perform actions or divulge confidential information. Prevent becoming a victim of a vishing attack using these simple steps.
Do not respond to unsolicited phone calls. Scammers can alarm people which makes them nervous. If you are concerned hang up and call the company back using the number they have either on the back of the card, your statement or from their website.
Calls can be easily spoofed so you cannot trust the caller ID. Spoofing is falsifying the information on the caller ID system. While It may look like a call from your credit card company it may very well be a scammer. Always take the time to look the number up.
Tips to Protect Yourself
From Vishing
- Don’t respond to text messages or automated voice messages from unknown or blocked numbers on your mobile phone or home phone.
- Treat your mobile phone like you would your computer…don’t download anything unless you trust the source.
- Don’t respond to unsolicited texts or phone calls requesting personal information.
- Don't trust you Caller ID. If you are uncomfortable with the caller and are not sure that it's a legitimate call. Hang up! Look up the real phone number for the company or person, dial it, verify the call, better be a little embarassed, but safe and assured, rather than angry and an empty bank account.
To Report Telephone Scams -
Phone scams -Federal Trade Commission, either online or by phone at 1-877-382-4357
Report all robocalls and unwanted telemarketing calls to the Do Not Call Registry online or by phone at 1-888-382-1222
Report caller ID spoofing to the Federal Communications Commission either online or by phone at 1-888-225-5322.
