Beware of Robocall Scams!

“Hi, we’re calling because we know you just sat down to dinner and we’d love to interrupt you with this offer for an extended warranty on your car! Just provide us with your Social Security number and credit card details, and we’ll take care of the rest.”

If that script sounds familiar, it’s probably because robocall scams have become an everyday nuisance for millions of people. While some of these calls may be legitimate, such as appointment reminders or alerts from financial institutions, those certainly will not ask for sensitive personal info (like tax ID, account numbers and birth dates). The bottom line: There are far too many robocalls serving as fronts for scams, and they may not be as obvious as in the example above.

Don’t get caught! Here’s what you need to know about robocall scams and how to avoid falling victim.

What are robocall scams?

Robocall scams use automated dialing systems to reach a massive number of people super-quickly. These calls often feature a pre-recorded message designed to trick you into providing sensitive information, making a payment or engaging with a scammer.

Some common types of robocall scams include:

• Government impersonation scams. Here, callers claim to represent the IRS, Social Security Administration or Medicare and demand payment or personal information.
• Tech support scams. In this variation, fake alerts about viruses on your computer urge you to pay for unnecessary “services.”
• Loan or debt relief scams. In these robocalls, scammers promise low-interest loans or help with debt in exchange for upfront fees.
• Prize or lottery scams. These messages tell you you’ve won a contest or lottery that you never entered, and require a payment to claim your prize.
• Spoofed number scams. These calls appear to come from local or familiar numbers to increase the likelihood of you answering.

How robocall scammers operate

Many robocalls rely on “spoofing,” which alters the caller ID display to make it appear as if the call is coming from a legitimate source. For example, you might see a local area code or the name of a trusted organization, but none of this is real.

If you pick up the phone, the scammer’s pre-recorded message is designed to elicit a reaction. It may threaten legal action, claim your account has been compromised or promise a financial windfall. If you respond by pressing a button or speaking to a live operator, you risk falling deeper into the scam.

Watch for these red flags

Knowing how to spot a robocall scam is your first line of defense. Be on the lookout for these warning signs:

• Unsolicited calls from unknown numbers. Be extra wary of unsolicited calls, especially if they stress urgency or offer unexpected rewards.
• Requests for personal or financial information. Legitimate organizations won’t ask for sensitive details over the phone.
• Pressure to act immediately. Scammers rely on urgency to prevent you from thinking critically.
• Unrealistic offers. Promises of free money, low-interest loans or debt forgiveness are often scams.
• Caller ID doesn’t match the claim. Even if the caller ID looks legitimate, verify it independently.

How to protect yourself

While robocall scams can be frustrating, there are steps you can take to minimize your risk and protect your personal information.

1. Don’t answer unknown calls. If you don’t recognize the number, let the call go to voicemail. Scammers are less likely to leave a message, and legitimate callers will usually identify themselves.
2. Hang up immediately. If you answer the phone without realizing it’s a robocall, hang up. Do not press any buttons, as this can confirm your number is active and lead to more calls.
3. Use call-blocking tools. Many smartphones and mobile carriers offer call-blocking features to reduce unwanted calls. Third-party apps – like Hiya, Nomorobo or Truecaller – can also help identify and block known scam numbers.
4. Register on the National Do Not Call Registry. Adding your number to the National Do Not Call Registry won’t stop all robocalls, but it can reduce calls from legitimate telemarketers. You can report all violations to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
5. Never share personal information over the phone. Legitimate companies won’t ask for sensitive details like your Social Security number, account information or passwords during a phone call.
6. Verify claims independently. If a caller claims to represent an organization, hang up and contact the organization directly using verified contact information.
7. Report robocall scams. Report scam calls to the FTC or your state’s attorney general to help authorities track and shut down these operations.

What to do if you fall victim

If you suspect you’ve been targeted by a robocall scam, take immediate action to mitigate the damage. First, contact your credit union, bank or credit card company to report any unauthorized transactions. Next, monitor your accounts for suspicious activity and consider freezing your credit to prevent identity theft. File a report with the FTC and provide details about the call. Finally, let family and friends know about the scam to prevent them from falling victim.

Robocalls can be more than just annoying, but with the right information, you can protect yourself from falling victim. Stay safe!

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