With the almost universal introduction of caller ID, choosing who and when to answer calls has become a tad bit easier. However, unfortunately, people still fall victim to vishing attacks. But what is vishing exactly? In this blog, we will explore this newfangled type of phishing while laying out some helpful ways to avoid becoming a victim of it.
What is Vishing?
When it comes to what is vishing, it’s simple. Vishing, a combination of the words ‘voice’ and ‘phishing,’ is basically a phone scam designed to have you unknowingly share your personal information.
In these attacks, a scammer tries to obtain your private data or financial information like account numbers and passwords. Sometimes, they will explain that your account has been compromised and that they represent a bank. Other times, they will pretend to be from a federal agency getting you to download software that’s likely malware.
So, if you ever receive one of these calls, it’s probably vishing. And be careful, because they’re a lot more prevalent than you’d think. In 2018 alone, vishing crimes cost victims upwards of $50 million, according to the FBI’s Crime Compliant Center. That’s why it’s important to protect yourself—and we know how to do it.
How to Not Become a Victim of a Vishing Attack
Join the National Do Not Call Registry
A good way to steer clear of vishing scams is to join the National Do Not Call Registry. By adding your numbers to this list, you will alert telemarketers that you don’t want to be contacted. Unfortunately, though, some illegal callers will still fall through the cracks.
Know When to Not Answer and Hang Up
When receiving a call from an unknown number, it might be a good idea not to answer. Instead, let it go to your voicemail, so they can state their case and then you can decide if they’re worth following up with.
Also, if you find yourself on a vishing call, hang up the moment you figure it out. You don’t need to politely carry on the conversation. Hang up and block their number to avoid becoming another victim.
Verify their Identity
If you receive a voicemail from a certain organization and they leave a call back number, don’t call them directly. Instead, try to search for the organization in question and call them directly to verify the claim.
Ignore Prompts
If a call instructs you to press a certain button or say “yes,” don’t. Sometimes, a scammer will record your voice and use it to navigate voice-automated phone menus connected to your account.
When it comes to vishing, malware and other forms of cybersecurity, leave it up to the pros at TCI. In fact, don’t wait, contact us today and schedule a consultation to start protecting your company’s information and data!
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