WDNews, Dothan, AlabamaThe Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is advising Americans to exercise caution and recognize the warning signs that could help them avoid falling victim to the growing number of robocalls and phone scams across the country. Additionally, the organization is providing advice on how to handle shady callers and safeguard private data.
Avoiding calls from unknown numbers is one of the FCC’s most crucial warnings. A local number displayed by the caller ID does not ensure that the call is authentic. Spoofing tactics are frequently used by scammers to hide their numbers in an effort to look reliable.
According to FCC officials, if you don’t recognize the number, leave it on voicemail. If you do respond, end the call right away if something doesn’t feel right.
Scammers frequently employ automated messages that tell the recipient to hit a button to end the call. Doing so, meanwhile, may actually tell scammers that the number is active, which could result in even more unsolicited calls in the road. Furthermore, some robocallers pose queries intended to elicit a “yes” response, which they may then record and use as consent.
Authorities emphasize that you should never give up financial or personal information over the phone, particularly if the call was not requested. Passwords, bank account information, and Social Security numbers are examples of this. Residents are urged to independently confirm any statements made during these calls instead.
The FCC advised hanging up and phoning the number on your statement or on their official website if someone claims to be from your bank or a government organization and requests critical information. The majority of the time, a written notice will be sent to you prior to a phone call.
The FCC also advises creating passwords to secure voicemail accounts. Scammers can take advantage of this weakness by impersonating the account holder’s phone number, as certain voicemail systems automatically provide access when called from that number.
It is advised that residents look into third-party mobile apps that filter and block unsolicited calls or ask their phone service providers about robocall-blocking solutions. In order to enhance blocking technology for all customers, several of these providers also let users report spam numbers.
Customers can register their number on the National Do Not Call Registry at www.donotcall.gov to cut down on calls from lawful telemarketers. This helps minimize calls from companies that adhere to government standards, but it won’t stop scammers that disregard the guidelines.
The Houston County Sheriff’s Office is alerting locals to a particular scam that preys on locals. The department reports that persons have been phony law enforcement officers who have called them. In order to prevent arrest, the calls frequently coerce victims into making an instant payment.
These are frauds. According to a statement from the sheriff’s office, we don’t call to inform you of a warrant or a missed court date. Additionally, we don’t accept payments over the phone.
It is advised that anyone who receives such a call end the call and call the Houston County Sheriff’s Office at 334-677-4808 to confirm the facts.
Scam strategies keep getting more complex as technology advances. However, homeowners can better safeguard themselves and their personal data with knowledge, vigilance, and the appropriate resources.
