Most of us are now aware of the scam email, but there is still a high risk to be a victim of scam through phone calls. Currently, fraudsters can call from a phone number which would apparently belong to the relevant company or authority, but in fact, it would be phishing faked by fraudsters.
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1- If it is an automated call with a recorded message and asking you to dial a number to connect, then I would do not bother and will just hang up. As the number on the screen can be spoofed/faked.
2- It is your right to ask about the caller identity, name etc. Ask how I would know that you are a genuine representative. Ask for a direct number so that you can call him. The direct number would not be working, trust me. Because they cannot call from a direct number, otherwise, their identity would be disclosed.
3- Never ever share the bank card details on the call which is made to you, does not matter whoever is on the other side of the call.
4- People have been scammed by callers saying that they are from tax/police/court etc. and then asked to pay the penalty with warrant warning if not paid. Remember, there is no such thing exist.
5- Sometime, the call would be looking very realistic, and you would not be able to ignore it, for instance, a recent car accident, insurance, tax, etc. Remember, these are very common things, and most of us are somehow affected. It may be just bad luck that the call comes around the time of mishap. Like you had a car crash a few days ago and unlikely you got a call from a scammer. Tax scam calls usually start around the tax return times.
6- Banks would not offer you the loans just like that if you are tried to be fooled by asking card details. Say, I will visit the branch. Ask to be contacted through posts.
7- Remember, it is quite easy for scammers to get your details. Most of us have a Facebook account, trying to buy/sell things online, downloading apps etc. So, our footprints are all around the internet. Do not be surprised/fooled if someone gives you a few details about you.
I would never provide card details if someone calls me does not matter whatever the worst punishment and highest reward waiting for me. I prefer to provide details when I call someone and 100% sure of the number.
I think the full name, home address and even date of birth are all over the internet. Just go to the Companies House and you will be surprised. Initially, Companies House was showing the full date of birth and now it only shows month and year. Still enough to fool someone.
OTP (One-Time PIN) can be really effective and all banks are now providing the service.
Banking, telecom and law enforcement agencies are really slow to respond. I cannot see why scam calls cannot be stopped.