More fraud and scam terms to discuss this week…
Smishing is short for “SMS phishing”. The scammer sends a text message or SMS (Short Message Service) with a phone number or link claiming to be connected to your bank or another company. They expect you to call the number which goes to an automated system or click on a link leading you to provide personal, credit card and/or other financial information. Once they obtain your personal or financial information, they can access your accounts or even open new accounts without your knowledge. Do not click on any links until you can verify they are legitimate.
Vishing involves a scammer also appearing to be legitimate business but through your landline telephone service. Through Internet Protocol (VoIP) the scammer can manipulate the caller ID information. They can disguise the number to be from your same area code or prefix to appear as a local, legitimate business but, yet, they could be anywhere in the world. Similar to smishing, they are hoping you will be convinced or tricked into providing your personal and/or financial information to them.
Spoofing was originally associated with emails having a deceptive “from” address to look like a trusted source. Now, spoofing involves false numbers you see on your caller ID.
The zest way to protect yourself from becoming a victim of these frauds and scams is to not give out your personal or financial information. It is best to be cautious and verify who is really asking for this information. Contact your credit card company or financial institutions directly by using the phone numbers provided on your statements.
If you suspect fraud or a scam, file a complaint at ftc.gov/complaint or the Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov. Also, contact your financial institution and/or credit card company if you provided any of your personal or financial information.
To learn more, contact Janell at the Chouteau County Extension Office at 622-3036, janellb@montana.edu or in the green building next to the Chouteau County Courthouse at 1308 Franklin St in Fort Benton.
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Montana State University, US Department of Agriculture and Montana Counties Cooperating. MSU Extension is an equal opportunity/affirmative action provider of educational outreach.
