Re: Seen A Scam? Warn us if you have!
Originally Posted by
Mups
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I have just had a call from a number showing as 0022 code.
I do not know this code, and suspected a scam so didn't pick up.
On checking the number out, apparently it is a '"Fake number" from abroad.
What are 'fake numbers' exactly, where do scammers get them from, how are they generated, and why they are even allowed to work?
It's quite easy, these days, just to buy a live telephone number. There are plenty available, in various companies, etc., Then the scammer just uses it like any other.
Nowadays, they can even get a mobile number similar to the ones in your area,.
If the scammer is big time he'll have a machine which rings every possible number (maybe in an entire country).
If someone picks up, it's recorded on his "active" list.
If the one who answers, or the answering machine, answers with a name (hello Joe Bloggs here, I can't come to the phone...........) then the scammer has a name and the number.
Then he can ring you with what seems to be a legit query for your house (About your Virgin Media, Census, Elec Bills, etc)
If you say you aren't a customer he can ring off and try someone else.
If you are a Customer, he only needs "confirm your password, account number, etc" & he's got all he needs!
He'll find it hard to get into your bank, but eBay, or some such account, may be much easier.
Goodbye money.
Never give your name, automatically, on answer, a legit caller would know it.
Never give your account number, or password. A legit outfit would be able to tell YOU your account number.
Never give your address, same as above.
I think you'll find that legit Customers never ask any more.