While being on the lookout for online scams is important, consumers should also be wary of unsolicited telephone calls that claim to be from well-known businesses. Scams of this type are usually designed to defraud victims by gaining access to bank account or credit card information that is subsequently used without the knowledge or consent of the account holder. Here are a couple of suggestions on how to protect yourself from telephone scams.
First, verify whom you are speaking with. While the company name may be familiar, that does not mean the caller is actually affiliated with that business in any way. Pointedly ask if the caller is actually employed by the company identified or is an affiliate who is performing tasks on behalf of that company. If there is any hesitancy to answer, or the response is vague and evasive, end the conversation immediately.
Second, never provide financial information during an unsolicited telephone call. Instead, ask for a web site you can visit later, or a number you can call back at your leisure, after you investigate the nature of the offer. Again, if there is any pushback to take action now, end the conversation immediately.
While there is always the chance that the call was from a legitimate company, but was handled poorly by a nervous and relatively untrained employee, the possibility that you’ve been conversing with a scam artist is much more likely. In this instance, being a little extra cautious is not likely to result in any harm, but will increase your chances of not being a victim of fraud considerably.
Tags: Credit Cards
