Recently, cases of suspicious calls from foreign numbers to the phones of our compatriots have been increasingly observed. The “hunters” of the digital world are targeting citizens’ funds and personal data using new methods. Zamin.uz provides information about cybersecurity specialists’ warnings and ways to protect yourself.
Technological disguise: how do scammers work?
Today, fraudsters widely use not the traditional telephone network, but internet technologies and special IP telephony programs. This allows them to hide their real identity and location. A fake number belonging to any part of the world may appear on your screen. Since such virtual numbers are temporary, tracking them or identifying their owner is a very difficult task even for law enforcement agencies.
Callback — a financial trap
Often, scammers use the “missed call” method. If you, driven by curiosity, call back such an unknown foreign number, the money on your phone balance may “burn out” within seconds. In addition, they may introduce themselves as representatives of large organizations, bank operators, or international companies and try to steal your bank card confidential codes by gaining your trust.
Artificial intelligence and “voice thieves”
Modern cybercrime is becoming increasingly dangerous. Simply by answering the phone and saying “Hello,” your voice may be recorded. Later, with the help of artificial intelligence, the voice can be processed and used for deepfake attacks, such as calling your relatives and asking for help in your name. Moreover, every answered call confirms to scammers that your number is “active,” which may lead to an increase in the number of attacks.
How to protect yourself? Expert recommendations:
- Do not answer: if you receive an unexpected and suspicious call from a foreign number, it is best not to pick up.
- Do not call back: never return calls to unknown international numbers.
- Block them: immediately add suspicious numbers to the “black list.”
- Protect your privacy: never share your bank card number, expiration date, or SMS verification codes with anyone.
Always stay alert and inform your relatives about these risks. Your caution is your guarantee of safety.
Dear customers, have you ever received such suspicious calls? How did you act in such situations?
