Vishing (voice or VoIP phishing) is a sort of cyber attack that uses voice and telephony technologies to deceive targeted persons into disclosing sensitive data to unauthorized entities.
The information could be personal, such as a Social Security number or details about a financial account, or it could be tied to a commercial environment. For example, fraudsters may use vishing to entice an employee to provide network access information.
In 2022, "38% of the reports submitted to the FTC by consumers ages 80+ indicated phone calls as the initial contact method," according to Ally Armeson, executive program director of Cybercrime Support Network. (Calls were the most popular mode of contact for this age group.)"
"Vishing, also known as voice phishing," Aremson continues, "is a growing threat in the world of cybercrime, particularly targeting the elderly."
The scam takes advantage of the fact that the elderly are more likely to trust phone contacts by impersonating false charities, appearing as relatives, or pretending to be trustworthy locations like government agencies.
As a result, sharing credit card information, social security numbers, login credentials, or other valuable data is likely.
How to defend yourself?
- Take the effort to confirm the caller's identification by visiting the organization's website.
- Never give up personal or financial information over the phone. Legitimate organizations will never ask for credit card information, social security numbers, or passwords.
- Do not be hesitant to call into question the legitimacy of unknown numbers. Legitimate organizations will never ask for credit card information, social security numbers, or passwords.
- Don't be hesitant to question the legitimacy of unknown phone numbers, and be wary of providing important information over the phone without first verifying the caller's identity.
- Since caller ID can be easily spoofed, don't rely on it alone to decide whether a call is real. I recommend remaining attentive and exercising caution while disclosing sensitive information.
- Any unknown phone caller should be routed to voicemail so you can screen the call. Remember to notify the FTC of any unusual calls or suspected fraudulent activities at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
- In general, do not give any financial or Social Security information over the phone, by text, or via email.
By following these tips, you can help protect yourself from vishing scams