It’s not always easy to spot the difference between a genuine caller and a telephone scammer. Sadly, thousands of citizens fall victim to fraudulent calls every single year, parting with their data, financial information and even their money over the phone. Scammers use multiple tactics to get vulnerable people to hand over as much personal information as possible. This can be done through fear and scaremongering methods, putting them under pressure, bamboozling them with confusing yet convincing terminology and pretending to be someone of authority.
These kinds of calls can come from a wide variety of sources, such as a call from this number, pretending to be from an energy supplier. This scam is designed to get innocent people to inadvertently hand over their bank details either by offering them something that is too good to be true or frightening them into making payment for an overdue bill or amount before their energy supply or services are suspended.
Thankfully, in the battle against scams and nuisance callers, you’re not alone. By familiarizing yourself with how you can spot a telephone scam, you’ll be able to avoid situations like these and even keep your friends and family safe. Read on to find out more.
You’re Feeling Pressured
It’s simple, but it works. Scammers can make you feel flustered and get you to hand over information or make a decision by turning up the pressure. If you’re concerned about the authenticity of a phone call, then you always have the option to hang up. From here you can get in touch with your utility provider, your bank or wherever the caller claimed they were from and get them to verify the call that you received – ensure you call on the contact details provided on the company website or on your previous correspondence. Don’t ever feel pressured to remain on the phone if you feel uncomfortable about the conversation you’re having.
Never Give Out Your PIN or Passwords
Genuine companies will never ask you to give them your pin or the passwords relating to your accounts. Of course, some scammers know that you know this, and may encourage you to type your PINs into the keypad instead – you should never oblige and hang up immediately. If a caller asks for these details, you know it’s a scam. Contact your real providers and let them know you’ve been targeted.
They’re Asking You To Transfer Money
Imagine your bank calling you to warn you about suspicious activity on your account and they need you to transfer money into a “safe account” to protect it. No bank or provider would ever ask you to do this.
They’re Asking for Bank Details
Whether it’s your bank, your utility company or a government body or office that’s asking you to call them back, and then asking for your bank details – it’s a scam. No company will ever ask you for your bank details over the phone.
Final Thoughts…
Understanding the habits and tactics used by criminals can help keep you and your family safe. Make sure you share these details with anyone in your family who you believe to be vulnerable to these scams.
