Better Business Bureau announces to look out for “vishing”
Vishing, what is it anyway?
Vishing is an extension of “phishing”. Instead of relying solely on emails, vishers use the telephone.
Vishing currently works 1 of 2 ways:
The first way, is the scammer sends out a “phishing” type email (usually a financial institution), in addition to using a false URL, they are including a false phone number. The victim is urged to call the phone number immediately. If someone calls the phone number, an automated message (or sometimes a human) requests account information. The vishers then uses the information gathered to steal money, etc.
The second way, is that the “visher” cold calls victims. On caller ID, the visher’s phone number appears as a credible local phone number. To establish credibility, a prerecorded message (or live person) claims that their account may have been compromised and asks for account information. The scammer then uses this information to steal money or the victim’s identity.
For more information visit the Vishing article at the Better Business Bureau.