Fraud schemes, particularly spam calls from +44 numbers, are increasingly common, with criminals seeking personal information. These calls typically feature pre-recorded messages promoting fake job offers or encouraging callbacks to incur high charges. To protect against such scams, it’s advisable to avoid answering suspicious calls, especially those with automated messages. Users can activate call-blocking features on smartphones or utilize apps like tellows for added security against unwanted calls.
Every day, we face a myriad of fraud schemes that complicate our lives. Staying vigilant against phishing emails, the grandchild scam, and irritating spam calls is crucial. Among these, spam calls can be particularly bothersome, making it essential to recognize and respond appropriately to them.
Currently, many individuals are receiving calls from numbers with the area code +44, which seem relentless. These calls stem from fraudsters harboring malicious intentions, seeking to acquire your personal information and potentially use it for identity theft.
Emerging Fraud Tactics from the UK
The +44 area code reveals that these calls originate from the United Kingdom. When you pick up, you are greeted by a pre-recorded message saying: ‘Hello, I want to talk to you about work. Add me on WhatsApp.’ After this brief introduction, the call abruptly ends. This tactic serves two main purposes for the criminals involved.
One objective is to lure you into a scam through WhatsApp, presenting a fake job opportunity. They may entice you with promises of high earnings for simple tasks, claiming that payments will be made in cryptocurrency. However, you will ultimately receive nothing in return for your efforts.
In some cases, these fraudsters may ask for money under the guise of a reimbursement that will supposedly be included in your salary. Their primary goal remains to extract your personal data.
Another possibility is that these calls are part of a ‘ping call’ scheme. The intention is for you to return the call out of curiosity. If you do, you may incur expensive charges since the UK is no longer part of the EU following Brexit. The callers aim to increase costs by prolonging the conversation and preventing you from hanging up.
Effective Strategies for Protection
The numbers +447300287048, +447383072535, +447444468976, and +447307398680 have been flagged as highly dangerous by the tellows platform. If you see any of these numbers on your screen, it’s best to avoid answering. Similar spam calls are also emerging from locations like the Netherlands and Portugal.
As a general rule, if you encounter an automated message upon answering, feel free to hang up immediately. No legitimate company would initiate a call with a recorded message. Additionally, receiving offers over the phone is a clear red flag for potential fraud, whether it involves utility companies, banks, or others.
It’s wise to refrain from engaging with such calls. Even a simple ‘yes’ can lead to dire consequences, as the callers might record your response and manipulate it against you. A ‘yes’ could be used to falsely confirm a contract, which is why the safest course of action is to hang up promptly.
For those looking to further shield themselves from spam calls, Samsung users can activate the ‘Smart Call’ feature. iPhone users also have the option to block unknown numbers to enhance their protection.
Additionally, consider using the tellows app on your smartphone. This app automatically alerts you and blocks unwanted calls. For landline users, the tellows call protection for the FRITZ!Box offers a great way to safeguard against spam calls.