Calling time on scammers

It is a good thing that the human race thrives on social interaction. If we were all solitary beings then it is possible that the telephone might never have been invented. Why else would we willingly bring an object into our homes that can disturb us at any time and which often takes priority over family life.

Of course, the fact that we willingly install phones in our homes is also one of the greatest dangers. It is easy to assume that anyone phoning us is a friend and has our best interests at heart. This leaves the way open for the scammers to strike when our guard is down.

Recently Microsoft surveyed over 7,000 people in the USA, Ireland the UK and Canada in connection with a single scam which appears to be rife in those countries. Over 15% of those surveyed reported that they had received a phone call informing them that their PCs were at risk of failing due to a security threat. The 22% of those called who believed the call was genuine were then given a series of instructions which resulted in them providing open access to their own computers and handing over credit card details. Credit card losses were reported which amounted to hundreds of pounds per person with a further cost of PC repair in excess of £1,000 per PC.

The fact that so many people fall for the scam is mainly due to the trust that we place on those who telephone us. We naturally assume that if they have our phone numbers and say they represent X Company then they must be telling the truth. Scammers exploit this and we all suffer as a consequence.

The simple way to call time on such scams is to check details. Even if someone claims to be from your own bank, get their full name, office address and telephone number and say you will phone them back. Then check the details before you phone and if the number is not one you recognise phone your local branch contact first. If the caller purports to be from a company such as your own phone or power company then ask them to tell you your contract number and provide some contract confirmation such as your last bill amount or your calling charge. If they can’t then they may be a scammer.

Finally don’t hand out credit card or bank details to anyone who telephones you. Legitimate callers won’t ask. And remember, scammers won’t just phone to your home number. Office staff should be equally on guard about the possibility of rogue telephone calls at work. With a little care we could frustrate the scammers and return the telephone to the position of trusty and necessary friend.