(WXYZ-TV)- Here we go again! You just can’t let your guard down when it comes to protecting your personal information. Scam artists are counting on a phone call to alarm you so you’ll give up the goods!
The thought of someone having your credit card or bank number can strike real fear because there’s real power in those little numbers.
The callFrank Adams says he was awakened at 11:30 at night by a call (like this one) alerting him to some sort of fraud on his atm card.
Phone call: Due to the large number of email scam attempts targeting our members, we have placed suspension alerts to all credit union accounts.
Frank Adams: It was an automated call. It said my ATM card has been locked out.
Bleary, since he just woke up, Frank Adams says he punched one, as instructed, and waited to hear what he should do next.
Phone call: You are required to run a brief verification process where you must specify the information exactly as we have it on file.
Frank Adams: The automated voice told me I would need to enter my 16 digital number to activate the account.
At that point, Frank says he woke up enough to realize the call was fishy, because it never even named his financial institution. Good thing, millions of Americans are now receiving automated calls like these, telling you your account has been locked, or offering to lower the interest rate on your credit card. In each case, scammers are vishing, voice fishing for your card number…
What You Should DoTo protect yourself,
-Be suspicious of all unknown callers, and never give personal information to anyone who calls you.
-Don’t trust caller id. Even it’s a number you think you recognize, it doesn’t guarantee the call is coming from that number of company.
-If you’re worried about what they’re saying, call them back to verify. But use the number you know, not the one on caller id.
Your best bet. Do like Frank did, and hang up!
The FTC would like to hear about any suspicious calls you may get. You can report them by calling
(888) 382-1222, or by going to
www.ftc.gov
