Don’t Call Back If Your Phone Rings Once in the Middle of the Night
July 18, 2023
source: freepik
We live in a world where technology connects us like never before, but unfortunately, this connectivity has also opened doors for scammers to exploit unsuspecting individuals. One common phone scam that has emerged in recent years involves a four-word phrase: “Can you hear me?” If you get tricked, this innocent question can cause serious harm. In this article, we will explore why this phrase is dangerous and provide some tips on how to avoid these types of scams.
The “Can you hear me?” phone scam is when scammers deceive victims into saying “yes.” They capture the victim’s agreement and exploit it as false evidence of unauthorized charges or services. By capturing a victim’s voice saying “yes,” scammers can use the recording to make it appear as though the victim agreed to a transaction, subscription, or service, which can result in financial loss or identity theft.
How the Scam Works
Typically, the scam starts with an unsolicited phone call from an unknown number. The caller will let the phone ring just once and then hang up, leaving the victim curious and tempted to call back. Once the victim returns the call, they may hear a pre-recorded message or be connected to a live operator who will ask, “Can you hear me?” The aim is to get the victim to respond with “yes” and capture their voice for fraudulent purposes.
Avoiding the Scam
Be cautious of unknown callers: If you receive a call from an unfamiliar number, especially late at night, exercise caution. Don’t automatically assume it’s an urgent or important call. Scammers often use fear and urgency to manipulate victims.
Don’t answer suspicious calls: If you see an unrecognized number on your caller ID, it’s best to let it go to voicemail. Legitimate callers will leave a message, allowing you to screen the call and determine if it’s genuine.
Hang up immediately: If you do answer a suspicious call and hear the phrase “Can you hear me?” or any similar questions that prompt a “yes” response, hang up immediately. Don’t engage in conversation or provide any personal information.
Verify caller identity: If you receive a call from someone claiming to be from a reputable organization or company, take the time to independently verify their identity. Contact the organization directly using their official contact information to ensure the call is legitimate.
Register for the Do Not Call List: Add your phone number to your country’s Do Not Call List to reduce the number of unwanted telemarketing calls you receive. While this won’t guarantee complete protection, it can help minimize the risk of falling for phone scams.
Use call-blocking apps: Consider installing call-blocking apps on your smartphone. These apps can help filter out known scam numbers and prevent them from reaching your phone.
Phone scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated, and it’s crucial to remain vigilant to protect yourself from falling victim to fraudsters. The “Can you hear me?” cams demonstrate how scammers take advantage of our willingness to participate in seemingly innocent conversations. Remember, it’s important to hang up immediately if you hear this phrase or any similar questions. By following the tips outlined in this article and staying informed about the latest scams, you can reduce the risk of becoming a victim and safeguard your personal and financial information.