As we are all aware in 2024, scammers are everywhere and they have become extremely sophisticated—especially vishing scammers. A vishing scam occurs when someone tries to get sensitive information out of someone else over the phone. In 2021 alone, Americans lost an estimated $29.8 million to vishing attacks.
Sometimes vishing scammers call pretending to be from a bank, looking for your login or account information. Sometimes they pretend to be a Medicare advocate requesting your personal information. Or sometimes, like in Clinton Township, Michigan, they pretend to be from a local hospital trying to procure patient data.
How to recognize a vishing attempt
A vishing scammer will likely do or ask for the following:
- Ask you to provide personal information that a legitimate caller would already know or have access to (like a Social Security number).
- Demand immediate payment using specific payment methods, like a prepaid debit card, gift card or money transfer.
- Pressure you to make an immediate decision.
- Use threats to scare you into complying (example: saying they will notify the police if you don’t follow their instructions).
- Offer you a “prize” that you must pay a fee to claim.
What to do if you receive a vishing call
If you receive a scam call, please:
- Record the phone number, then hang up immediately.
- Do not engage with any texts this person may send.
- If the caller requested work-related information, please contact the Help Desk.