Another Phone Scam to Watch and Listen For

Here’s another phone scam that is making the rounds.  A WGMD listener emailed this story to us last week.  Her mother received a call from a number she didn’t recognize – and didn’t answer the phone.  However a computerized voice message was left in a threatening manner:

“We (no identification of who the “we” is) are calling to inform you that there is legal enforcement action filed against your social security number for fraudulent activity so before the matter goes to the state courthouse and before you get arrested you need to call 412-593-6797”

They did call the police, who informed them they needed to contact the FBI, which they are in the process of doing.

Remember – these scams are often meant to be scary so that you act before thinking.  Unless YOU initiate a phone call with someone – NEVER give out any personal information to anyone on the phone.  If you can get away with it – don’t ever answer any question with Yes – as that could be created fraudulently into digital approval something that you never approved.

If you don’t recognize a phone number – don’t answer it and if they leave a message and you don’t know who it is or recognize it as anyone that you deal with delete the message.  If you don’t respond and they only get voice mail – they may stop calling you.