You may receive a phone call from a number you recognize—but it turns out to be someone else. This is known as “caller ID spoofing,” and scammers use it to trick you into thinking they are someone you trust to get your personal or financial information.
If you get a strange call from the “government,” hang up. If you want to check it out, visit the official (.gov) website for contact information. Government employees won’t call out of the blue to demand money or account information.
But sometimes, unfortunately, these scammers are quite convincing—and manage to get access to personal information. Remember these tips next time a caller is claiming to be from a government agency and asking you for personal information.
•Don’t give out,or confirm your personal or financial information to someone who called you.
•Don’t wire money or send money using a reloadable card. In fact, never pay someone who calls out of the blue, even if the name or number on the caller ID looks legit, especially if you’re feeling pressured to act immediately? Hang up. That’s a sure sign of a scam.
For information and resources to protect you against common scams and fraud, go to USA.gov.
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