The phone number proximity scam
This was an old phone call scam from years ago that tends to make the occasional comeback. Now, scammers have started using texts, too. These texts or phone calls typically come from three-digit area codes that appear to be from the United States, but they’re actually associated with international phone numbers, often in the Caribbean. “Just because it’s coming from your three-digit area code, that doesn’t mean it’s somebody you know,” says Cobb. “There’s actually a number faking service that allows you to do that.” The text often indicates that someone is in danger and needs help, and the criminal will ask you to call or text back. Plus, scammers will do anything to keep you on the line for as long as possible, like using an automated voice messaging service. Since dialing internationally can send your phone bill skyrocketing, that means lots of money in the smishers’ pockets. According to the Federal Trade Commission, people should be aware of messages or calls coming from these area codes: 268, 284, 473, 664, 649, 767, 809, 829, 849, and 876. For numbers you don’t know, don’t pick up or text back. If they really do know you, they’ll reach out again. Here are 10 more phone call scams that could totally steal your money.
Your debit card is locked
Nobody wants to run into problems with their bank. That’s why when you receive a text alerting you that your debit card is locked due to suspicious activity, it’s very tempting to click the link the text provides to solve the problem—which is exactly what you shouldn’t do. “Don’t reply to an email, phone call or text message that requires you to give your personal or account information either directly in the email or on a website the email sends you to,” says Chase on their website. To avoid being scammed, it’s best to contact Chase directly to find out what’s going on with your account rather than clicking on any link a text message is sending you. This is why millennials are most likely to fall for phone scams.
Set your delivery preferences for your FedEx package
It’s always a relief to be notified that the FedEx package you’ve been waiting for is delivered. However, it’s best to take a second before clicking on a text that’s supposedly from FedEx. According to CNN, the text messages show a supposed tracking code and link to “set delivery preferences.” The link directs people to a fake Amazon listing and then asks them to take a customer satisfaction survey, after which they’re informed that they won a free gift. Wonderful, right? All they have to do is put in their personal and credit card information—now what could go wrong with that? “FedEx does not request, via unsolicited mail, text or email, payment or personal information in return for goods in transit or in FedEx custody,” FedEx said in a statement. If you receive a text of this kind, it’s best to contact FedEx directly to find out what’s actually happening with your package.
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