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Phone spoofing is on the rise.
Phone spoofing occurs when scammers use specialized technology and manipulate the information on your caller ID in order to make a call or text message appear as if it is coming from a trusted source.
Often, scammers impersonate local numbers, specific businesses, or government agencies to trick people into answering and divulging sensitive personal information.
Here's how to protect yourself from this growing scam:
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Use spam filter tools. Most phone carriers and devices offer services to block potential spam calls.
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Don’t answer unexpected calls or messages. Legitimate callers will leave a voicemail or find a different channel to reach you.
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Verify the source of the call or message. If an unexpected caller claims to represent a business or agency, hang up and call back using an official phone number from a trusted source like an official website or account statement.
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Don’t share personal information. Do not provide your Social Security number, account numbers, passwords, or other personal information with callers.
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Be cautious of urgency tactics. Scammers will often attempt to pressure victims into making rushed decisions. It’s important to pause and verify legitimacy before divulging any personal information that cannot be undone.
Remember that The Atlantic will never call, text or email you to request personal or account information, including one-time verification codes. If you have a question about a communication you have received, please contact us directly at 908.245.1750.
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