Scam phone calls
Avoid becoming victim to a scam phone call
You can trust the voice of the person on the other end of the phone because you know who is calling you, right? Wrong.
Phone call scams, also known as vishing (voice phishing), are when a fraudster attempts to trick you into sharing information or making a payment over the phone. Fraudsters sometimes ‘spoof’ a legitimate phone number so it appears they are calling from your bank or other reputable company.
If someone asks you to tell them sensitive information like your card details, verification codes (OTP) or to move your money for safety reasons, hang up the call. This is a scam. We will never ask you to reveal any of this information to anyone, not even us.
How do scam phone calls work?
Step 1: The fraudster obtains your details, then gives you a call pretending to be someone you trust
The fraudster needs to obtain your phone number and personal details from somewhere before they call you in order to win your trust. This often happens through scam emails and texts first. They could have your bank or card details, or other personal details to seem like they know you well.
The fraudster spoofs their number to look like they are calling from the Bank, the police, or government.
You answer the phone call, and they convince you of who they are with the information they have about you. They build rapport with you, and they’re friendly. Why would you not trust them?
Step 2: The fraudster builds a story, playing on your emotions, to get you to do what they ask
The fraudster builds a convincing story. They might make you feel scared, worried and rushed to act fast.
They might pretend to be from the Bank’s fraud department or the police, claiming there is fraudulent activity on your account and that you need to move your money to a ‘safe account’. Or they might claim to be a distressed relative claiming a loved one is in danger and needs money urgently to help.
Step 3: The fraudster gains access to your sensitive details or money and takes action
The fraudster applies pressure and convinces you to provide personal or sensitive information, or even convinces you to send money to an account that they have control of.
They might isolate you by claiming the situation is confidential and say you must not tell anyone.
The fraudster may quickly transfer funds now they have this information, or make unauthorised purchases using your details. They may continue to manipulate you further for more money or details too.
Be wary of unexpected phone calls
A genuine company will never call you and ask you to move money. They will never ask you for sensitive information like your card details, PIN number, full security information, or verification codes (OTP). Even if the caller already seems to know personal details about you, this does not mean that they are genuine.
Never share your security information in full with anyone
Never share your card details or security information in full with anyone. Never share your verification code (OTP). Not even with us.
Call back on a trusted number
Do not rely on the caller ID display on the phone to check if the caller is genuine. Fraudsters can manipulate this. It is best to hang up and call back on a trusted number if you have any doubts about the phone call at all. Do not feel pressured to stay on the phone. A genuine company will understand if you wish to call them back.