Everyone knows about phishing, but have you heard of “vishing”?  

Vishing is the act of scammers using fraudulent calls to gain access to accounts. Callers may use fake phone numbers, voice-altering software, and even fear tactics to influence others to hand over sensitive information.  

Phishing and vishing fall under the same umbrella of security threats. However, phishing is usually through emails and text messages. Phishing usually has a broader audience and can send attacks out with mass messages. Vishing is a little more personal.  

Sometimes vishing attacks start with a text message asking for numbers to call them. Another scam is robocalling and using voice-altering technologies to remove accents and allow people to believe that the call is legitimate. These calls will attempt to gain valuable account information. 

The Federal Trade Commission reported these were the most common vishing attacks:  

• “Compromised” banking account   
• Social Security and Medical scams  
• IRS tax scams  

Scammers will use a sense of urgency to try and receive information. They will often impersonate an authoritative figure to get compliance out of the other line. What does that mean? Well, they may threaten you with jail times or steep fines if you do not follow their directions.  

How can you stay safe from a vishing attack?  

• Don’t answer your phone: When an unknown number pops up, it’s best to just let that go to voicemail. If they leave a message, always call back the company they state they are from and not the number they called with. 
• Hang up on the caller:  If you think the number is familiar but the caller is not who you thought it was? Just hang up on them! Try not to answer any questions and click the “end call” button.  
• Join the national “Do Not Call” registry:  The site lets you report calls and add your number to a list that keeps Visher's from contacting you. This does not prohibit charities and other organizations from calling you.  

If you happen to fall into a vishing scam, don’t fret. Call your banking establishments and put holds on accounts so no charges can happen. You can report fraudulent calls to the Federal Trade Commission.