There are several ways for individuals to get access to your sensitive logins or credit card information. In this article we will talk about Vishing.
Vishing is the criminal practice of using social engineering to gain access to your private personal and financial information for the purpose of financial reward. Because this is done over the phone or by voice messages, it is called vishing.
Before hackers attack they will often try to get us to like them and trust them. They may sound friendly and professional, use your name, and call you on your home phone. Their aim is to manipulate people into revealing confidential or personal information that can be used for fraudulent purposes.
In a vishing attack, a hacker may start a seemingly friendly conversation with you over the phone. During the course of the conversation, the caller gathers vital personal information to later use to steal your identity and money, or to attack a company. In this way, a hacker takes advantage of the trust that we might automatically have in others. They may also play on our fears.
An example of vishing is when a hacker calls and pretends to be a trusted individual or company. He or she may tell you that your account is having an issue and they need your information to resolve it. At hearing this we may become fearful because we do not want to lose information in our account. We may trust the seemingly “nice” person on the phone, giving them all the information they are requesting, because we think they want to help us and we want to prevent losing all our important, sensitive information.
Don’t Be a Vishing Victim
A vishing attack may be hard to recognize, but by remaining alert to this danger, you can detect it and protect yourself. Remember that Microsoft and other reputable companies never make unsolicited phone calls about your computer security or system fixes.
So, the best thing to do is HANG UP!
The point is to be aware of what’s happening. Never provide your credit card, account, or personal information over the phone to people who are calling you requesting it. Your bank or credit card company already has your card or bank account number and your personal information. If the situation seems unusual and frightening to you, then act on your instinct to be defensive. Being ready and aware is your best defense.
TIPS TO REMEMBER
• Companies will never make unsolicited phone calls about your computer security or system fixes.
• If you receive such a phone call, HANG UP!
• Never give credit card or personal information to people who call you that you do not know.
• Always be cautious. Do not be too trusting.
Have questions about this or any other issues? Give us a call at 970-749-9465 we're happy to help.
