Summertime, and the scamming is easy!
When the temperature rises, so does the volume of scam phone calls and text messages. Staying safe is challenging but not complicated.
Here are some tips for self-defense against these scams:
Phone calls: Obtain a caller ID device if you do not have one and never answer calls unless you recognize the caller’s number (A legitimate caller will leave a message if it is important).
Criminals are capable of masking phone numbers or even using numbers assigned to others. Typically, these calls display your area code and possibly the three-digit prefix. That makes the scam number appear to be someone local. If there is no response to your “hello” when answering the phone, hang up.
Sadly, by answering the phone your number is added to a call list as an active number. Be prepared to receive more calls. If you answer the call and the party calling is a automated call (robocall), hang up unless the call is from a know source (medical professional, school, etc.).
It often is difficult to recognize a robocall. Criminals employ “smart” or artificial intelligence software to make calls. These calls use a neutral “American” voice that will pose a question such as “Hi. This is Sarah calling from Visa, Discover, Mastercard. Are you interested in lowering your credit card interest rate?”
The voice activation now…
