Phone Phishing.

Phone Phishing - Scam Calls

Unsolicited phone calls are nothing new. Phishing via this method usually begins with an unexpected call and using whatever details they are able to gather about you, a criminal will attempt to coerce you into handing over more vital information. Usually if someone calls and claims to be contacting you on behalf of a bank, or service provider that you are familiar with, and recites information about you with confidence, then many people may believe the call to be legitimate. The main thing that phone phishers are looking for are details such as your PIN or account details or they may use another method such as asking you to send money or transfer funds – so if anyone leads with any questions relating to this hang up!

How Phishing Works

Impersonation
Scammers often pose as representatives from trusted organizations, such as your bank, a government agency, or a well-known company.

Creating Urgency and Fear
They manipulate emotions by instilling urgency or fear, pressuring you to act immediately before you can verify the legitimacy of the call.

Extracting Personal Information
Fraudsters may request sensitive details like bank account numbers, passwords, or PINs under false pretences.

Money Transfer Requests
They might instruct you to move funds to a supposed “safe account” for fraud protection or another fabricated reason.

Caller ID Spoofing
Scammers use technology to disguise their phone number, making it appear as if the call is from a genuine organisation.

 
Warning Signs of a Scam Call

Unexpected Calls
Legitimate organisations rarely contact you unexpectedly to request personal information.

High-Pressure Tactics
Be wary of callers who use aggressive language, issue threats, or demand immediate action.

Demands for Money Transfers
A request to transfer money to an unfamiliar account is a major red flag.

Fake Caller IDs
Scammers can manipulate caller ID to make their number appear authentic, don’t rely on it as proof of legitimacy. 

How to prevent phone fraud:

• Never give out personal details to anyone who has called you without asking the caller to identify themselves.
• Never return the call on the same phone line or mobile.
• Trusted organisations, such as your Bank or Building society will never call you.
• If you believe that someone is asking intrusive questions or acting suspicious then hang up and do not call them back.
• Report suspected phishing to the authorities or online or auction fraud www.actionfraud.police.uk. If the call occurred at your place of business then pass on the information to your employer.

If you have been subject to an Phone Scam - email : support@farpoint.co.uk