We’ve all been there—going about our daily lives and then all of a sudden we get that dreaded call from an unknown number. Many of us have a multitude of saved numbers in our phones, so when an unknown call comes through it looks very suspicious. You’d be smart to assume it’s a scammer or robocaller. As a result, answering unknown calls and putting your security at risk is not the best move. With so many spammers and bad actors out there to steal your information, it’s important to always be vigilant and alert. Scam calls are rampant and will continue to annoy you until you take the proper precautions.
In this article, we cover:
- The top 5 phone scam calls from the first half of 2022
- Why phone scam calls happen
- How to protect yourself from scam calls
The top 5 phone scam calls from the first half of 2022
YouMail’s Robocall Index shows that over 4 billion robocalls were made in June of 2022, which is more than 144 million per day. This number has been increasing each month, which shows the steady increase from the beginning of the year. While there are a number of phone scams to be aware of, there is a short list of scams that are most common. Komando.com notes that “the top five subjects that these calls regularly relate to are auto warranty, social security number, credit card, IRS, and student loans.” Ultimately, scammers are trying to get you to reveal personal and private information. Thus, it’s important to protect your identity from those who are trying to steal it.
Why phone scam calls happen
While there are many different types of scam calls, they’re all trying to achieve a similar goal: steal your personal and private information. AARP notes that “illegal robocalls include telemarketing spam (automated sales calls from companies you haven’t authorized to contact you) and attempts at outright theft. Prerecorded messages dangle goodies like all-expenses-paid travel or demand payment for nonexistent debts to get you to send money or give up sensitive personal data.” In addition, some scam calls may tell you you’re getting a refund and need to log into your online bank in order to receive it. According to an article from the New York Times, “the guy who is trying to convince you to sign into your online banking is after one thing alone, and that is he wants to steal your money.” Thus, it’s important to always be aware that scammers and robocalls are trying to steal your information.
How to protect yourself from scam calls
FCC’s consumer tips include not answering calls from unknown numbers, not responding to questions including ones that require a “yes”, using caution when being pressured for information, and more. In addition, YouMail’s free app blocks spam calls and voicemail instantly. Not only that, illegal spam calls will help law enforcement track and shut down the bad guys. In doing so, you’ll be protecting both yourself and others.
To protect yourself from scams and robocallers, download YouMail today.
