Even Google has warned about this growing problem. The solution is simpler than you might think: just ask one key question to unmask the scammer.
For a long time now, fraudulent calls have been a major headache for millions of people. Cases of phishing and bank impersonation scams are multiplying relentlessly. Faced with this threat, cybersecurity experts—including Google—have shared strategies to avoid falling for these schemes.
What Do Scammers Want?
Their main goal is, of course, to drain your bank accounts. But they may also be after personal data to blackmail you or steal your digital identity. Whatever their motive, there’s a simple and effective way to protect yourself.
The Foolproof Way to Identify a Phone Scam
Most scam calls follow the same patterns: urgency, an authoritative tone, and a prepared script to keep victims from thinking clearly. These scams aren’t personalized—if one person doesn’t bite, they simply move on to the next target.
That’s why experts recommend disrupting their script with a direct question. One of the most common scams is fake bank calls. Telling a real employee apart from an impostor can be tricky, but the caller’s reaction will reveal the fraud.
The key question to ask:
“Can you provide your full name, extension number, and the department you’re calling from?”
Faced with this request, scammers will usually hesitate or give vague answers. You can then call your bank directly to confirm whether the call was legitimate.
Banks Are Fighting Back Too
The threat is so serious that many financial institutions are taking action. Some issue warnings on social media, while others, like ING, have implemented systems to verify their official phone numbers. However, not all banks offer these safeguards yet.
What to Do If You Suspect a Scam
- Hang up immediately and call your bank yourself (only use official numbers—never the one from the suspicious call).
- Block the number that contacted you.
- Never share personal information, no matter how convincing they sound.
The beauty of this method is its reliability: it works on both human scammers and automated calls. While spam-filtering apps exist, they aren’t always 100% accurate. That’s why the best defense is staying calm and questioning what you hear.
With this simple trick, you’ll drastically reduce the risk of falling for a phone scam. Don’t let fraudsters win!
By: Nestor Castillo, ForAllTechNews Director