Fraudulent schemes, particularly involving calls from the +44 area code, are increasing. These scams often feature recorded messages promising job opportunities that lead to WhatsApp scams or ping calls designed to rack up costs. To protect yourself, avoid engaging with suspicious numbers and hang up immediately if you receive automated messages. Utilizing features like Samsung’s ‘Smart Call’ or downloading the tellows app can help minimize spam calls and enhance safety against potential identity theft.
Every day, we find ourselves grappling with various fraudulent schemes that complicate our lives. It’s crucial to stay vigilant against phishing attempts, scams like the grandchild trick, and unsolicited spam calls, which can be particularly frustrating.
Recently, many individuals have been plagued by calls from numbers with the area code +44, which seem relentless. These calls are, unsurprisingly, the work of fraudsters with malicious intentions aiming to steal your personal information, and in the worst-case scenario, commit identity theft.
Emerging Scam from the UK
The +44 area code indicates that these calls are originating from the United Kingdom. If you pick up, you’ll hear a recorded message saying, “Hello, I want to discuss a job opportunity with you. Please add me on WhatsApp.” Shortly after, the call disconnects. This tactic serves two primary purposes for the scammers.
One possible goal is to lure you into a WhatsApp scam involving a fake job offer. You may be enticed with promises of significant earnings for simple tasks, with payments supposedly made in cryptocurrency. However, you’ll likely find that the promised funds never materialize, leaving you empty-handed after putting in the work.
In some cases, these criminals may even request money from you under the guise of an advance payment that you would supposedly recover as part of your salary. Their primary interest, of course, lies in obtaining your personal data.
Another tactic these scammers use is known as a ping call. They hope that your curiosity will prompt you to call back. If you do, be prepared for high charges, as the UK is no longer part of the EU following Brexit. The callers will try to prolong the conversation, racking up costs while keeping you on the line.
Effective Ways to Safeguard Yourself
According to the tellows platform, numbers such as +447300287048, +447383072535, +447444468976, and +447307398680 are deemed highly dangerous. If you encounter any of these numbers, it’s best not to engage. Similar troublesome calls are also on the rise from countries like the Netherlands and Portugal.
Generally, if an automated message answers your call, it’s wise to hang up immediately. No legitimate company resorts to recorded messages for communication. Moreover, unsolicited comparisons over the phone are a clear sign of possible fraud, regardless of whether the discussion involves your electricity provider, bank, or any other service.
It’s best not to respond to these calls at all. Even a simple “yes” can lead to serious repercussions, as scammers might record your voice and use it against you, possibly to validate a fraudulent contract. The safest course of action remains to hang up promptly.
For those looking to minimize spam calls, Samsung users can activate the ‘Smart Call’ feature, while iPhone users have the option to block unknown callers.
Additionally, you may consider downloading the tellows app, which automatically alerts you to and blocks unwanted calls. For landline protection, the tellows call protection feature for FRITZ!Box is also available to help shield you from spam calls.