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Vishing (Voice phishing)

Vishing involves a fraudster making a phone call, usually posing as an official caller from a credible organisation.

They try and persuade victims to reveal financial and/or personal information so they can gain access to their bank accounts

The fraudster often tells the victim to hang up and dial the number on the back of their card to verify that the call is legitimate. When the victim hangs up, the fraudster will remain on the line so that when they redial they will go straight back through to the fraudster.

They persuade victims to either use their card readers to authorise payments via the internet bank to the fraudster's account or instruct the victim to log in to internet banking and transfer funds to a new account which they are told will safeguard their money or to hand over their bank cards and PINs to a courier.

Advice

  • Never reveal your bank details (e.g. account number, PIN, card reader generated passcode) over the phone. Fraudsters may instruct you to use your card reader, either to hand over passcodes or transfer money to a safe account, do not comply. If asked to dial the number on the back of the card, use a different phone.
  • Dialling correct numbers: when calling a company, ensure you get the number from a trusted source – such as the official website or your latest bill or statement. If you receive a call that feels suspicious, hang up and call back on the official number. You should always ensure the potential fraudster has hung up before you dial as sometimes they keep the line open to try to trick you. If you are in any doubt you should phone a friend or a trusted number first to make sure it goes through correctly.
  • Bank details: if you have received a call and been asked for your bank details, this is likely to be a scam. If you are ever unsure, hang up and call the company back on their official number, taking the precautions described above.
  • Persuasive sellers: anyone that's rushing you into a service or product and wants to take your bank details could quite easily be scamming you. Don't allow yourself to be pressured or bullied.
  • Premium rate numbers: any messages asking you to make expensive phone calls – premium rate numbers start with 090 – especially when it comes to 'prizes' or 'offers', are most likely a scam.

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