We commonly think of Spam as it relates to an email, those pesky unwanted emails that spread virus’ to your computer or request your credit card information by scammers. But what about spam as it relates to a cell phone call? Typically, the caller is posing as a representative of the IRS, a debt collector, Microsoft, or a service provider you don’t even remember hiring! They are looking for your identifying information such as your social security number, birth date, address or any other identifier that will enable them access to your financial information.
Once they find a way to capture that information, they can easily infiltrate your accounts. They might call pretending to be Microsoft noticing a problem with your computer. They will try to gain access to your computer and often ask you to download some software as a paid service to remedy your problem, and just like that, they have your credit card information, and they are in! With that information, they are often able to gain access to your Venmo account, PayPal, and others too. They will try using a money transfer application and even offer you a “refund” that you deserve. If you are not tech savvy, you may fall prey easily.
Although some calls are immediately identified as “Spam” on your phone, often we will answer a call that appears to be coming from our home town or elsewhere where we commonly call. Spoofing technology enables scammers to trick caller ID into displaying false information. They have…
