Telephone fraud involves criminals contacting you by phone (vishing) or by text (Smishing) pretending to be your bank, credit card issuer, utility company or often a computer company. During the conversation they will try and trick you into giving personal, banking or security information. Fraud perpetrators may also convince you to make a money transfer to them or inform you that you have won a prize and need to send money to release it. Their intention is to use this information to commit fraud against you or other parties in your name.
Vishing
This type of fraud is the name for phishing attacks using the telephone. The term “VISHING” is a combination of voice and phishing, and is typically used to steal credit card numbers, bank account numbers and passwords. You receive a phone call advising you that your credit card has been used illegally, and to call a certain number to “verify” your account number.
Smishing
This type of fraud is yet another variation of phishing, the name a combination of SMS (Short Message Service, the technology used in text messaging) and phishing. The fraud perpetrator uses cell phone text messages to lure you to a website or perhaps to use a phone number that connects to an automated voice response system. The smishing text message typically urges your immediate attention. For example, it could say it is confirming an order for a large computer purchase, and you need to follow the fraud perpetrator’s directions in order not to be charged for the item. Once you click on the URL or call the phone number, you will be asked to provide card numbers, account numbers, PIN numbers.
