A security expert has revealed the three things which should make you hang up the phone immediately when you receive a ‘cold call’. Many people get mysterious phone calls - and frequently it’s from companies they have relationships with such as banks, internet providers and other legitimate sources.
However, everyone wonders at what point they should hang up and what the ‘trigger’ warnings are to know for sure that it’s a scam. Dr Klaus Schenk, head of product security at the software company Verimatrix, told the Sun that there are warning signs people should be aware of.
The expert said that key things which should bring about hanging up include asking for personal information, promising financial opportunities and on no account install any app they ask you to. Dr Klaus said: “Be wary if the caller asks for immediate payment or requests you to disclose personal information.
“Promises of lucrative financial opportunities or gifts, along with emotional manipulation tactics, should also raise suspicion. Thirdly, you should be very cautious when anyone on the phone asks you to “install an app”.
“Similarly, if the caller insists on installing certain apps or demands a comprehensive set of personal details, it is advisable to exercise caution.”
According to UK Finance’s Take Five to Stop Fraud campaign, reported losses to impersonation scams totalled £177.6 million last year. Paul Maskall, fraud and cybercrime prevention manager at UK Finance explained earlier this year: “Criminals use a tactic called social engineering to groom and manipulate you into transferring money, or divulging your personal and financial details.
“With impersonation scams in particular, the criminals will convince people to make a payment, or give personal and financial details. They will do so by claiming to be from a trusted organisation such as your bank, the police, a delivery or utility company, communication service provider, a government department such as HMRC (HM Revenue and Customs) or someone you trust such as a friend or family member.
“By impersonating an organisation or person you recognise, they’ll use their tactics to convince you the request for money or information is genuine. They will also try to rush or panic you.”
And he explained criminals take their time researching targets. He said: “Criminals will often spend hours researching people and the fraud can often be carried out using multiple forms of contact.
“For example, they might start by looking online to see what current information is available, then contact you impersonating an organisation via text, message, DM (direct message), or email to gather further information.
“Finally, using all the information they have about you, they’ll call you on the telephone to finally get hold of your money.”
“If you believe you’ve fallen for a scam, contact your bank immediately on a number you know to be correct, such as the one listed on your statement, their website or on the back of your debit or credit card.
Anyone who suspects they’ve been scammed can report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or via actionfraud.police.uk.
