The next time the phone rings, don’t assume the number popping up on the caller ID belongs to someone honest. A new phishing scam is sweeping the country. The bad guys are using false caller ID numbers to convince their victims that they’re receiving a call from a bank or credit card company. Once the conversation begins the criminals are often able to acquire personal and financial information, or even money.
Few people would ever think that the names and phone numbers appearing on their caller ID screens were not genuine.
An increasing number of scammers out there who are posing as representatives of banks, credit card companies and even government agencies. State leaders in Florida are fighting back, hoping to pass a new law soon that would ban the transmission of false caller ID numbers.
Unfortunately, there are a number of legal online services that offer fake ID numbers for only a few dollars. One company says its technology is suited to individuals in certain law-enforcement-related professions, while another advertises its services as inexpensive and easy to use.
The following tips can help you avoid being scammed:
- Do not ever assume that the phone number being displayed on your caller ID is accurate.
- Never give any caller personal information over the phone unless you are certain you know exactly who they are.
- If you have any doubts regarding who you are speaking with, call the main number at the bank or credit card company, rather than continuing to speak with the person who called you.
Scammers are always trying to come up with new ways to con people, so the best way to combat the culprits is to stay informed.
