Impersonation

Sep 16, 2024

Impersonation and Scam Calls Overview

Types of Scam Calls

  • Microsoft Windows Checkup Call: Fake technical support claiming issues with the computer.
  • US Treasury Enforcement Action: Uses poor grammar, unlikely to be legitimate.
  • Credit Card Interest Rates Offer: Claims to offer 0% interest, not genuine.

Impersonation Techniques

  • Pretending to be from a Trusted Source:
    • Claiming to be from your company's help desk.
    • Pretending to be a high-ranking official in your organization.
    • Using technical jargon to sound credible.
  • Eliciting Trust:
    • Presenting a story that seems plausible.
    • Using a position of power to gain trust.

Goals of Attackers

  • Eliciting Information:
    • Aim to obtain sensitive information like credit card numbers, social security numbers, and banking details.
  • Identity Fraud:
    • Opening accounts in your name.
    • Using your personal information for financial gains.
    • Affects credit reports and can lead to fraudulent loan applications.
    • Tax fraud by filing returns in your name.

Prevention Tips

  • Do Not Volunteer Information:
    • Avoid sharing passwords or sensitive details over calls or emails.
  • Verification:
    • Always verify the identity of the caller before sharing any information.
    • Use official contact numbers for verification.
    • Make verification a standard procedure in your organization.
  • Avoid Giving Personal Details:
    • Be cautious with details like address, social security number, and birth date.

Conclusion

  • Impersonation is a common tactic in scam calls.
  • Verification and cautious sharing of information can help protect against fraud.