3 Red Flags That Experts Say Should Trigger Alarm Bells
Scam calls are becoming more advanced, leaving many people unsure about when to trust a caller and when to hang up. Criminals are increasingly skilled at impersonating trusted organisations such as banks, government bodies, or even the police.
However, according to Ged Ryan, Managing Director at UK-based call centre outsourcing firm Consumer Links, there are still clear signs that separate professional customer service from criminal trickery. He highlighted three major red flags that should instantly set alarm bells ringing.
How to Spot a Fraudulent Call
1. Requests for Personal or Financial Information
One of the most obvious indicators of a scam is when a caller asks for sensitive details such as bank account numbers, passwords, or payment information.
Ryan stressed: “If someone asks for bank details, payment, or confidential data over the phone, it’s almost certainly a scam.”
Legitimate businesses will never demand this type of information during an unsolicited call. Scammers often use the names of trusted institutions to create false confidence, but handing over such details can result in identity theft or financial loss.
2. Promises of Large Rewards, Refunds, or Prizes
Another common tactic is the offer of unexpected money, such as a refund or prize. Scammers might claim you’ve won a lottery you never entered or insist that you are owed a large refund.
According to Ryan, these criminals rely on creating urgency and fear. “They’ll claim your account has been compromised or that you’re owed a refund, all designed to make you act quickly without thinking.”
A genuine company will never pressure you into instant decisions, especially over the phone.
3. Instructions to Install an App or Click a Link
Perhaps the most dangerous warning sign is when a caller instructs you to install an app or click on a link. This technique allows fraudsters to gain direct access to your device, enabling them to steal personal data and even control accounts.
Ryan warned: “If you’re told to install an app or software, you should end the call straight away, this is a common method used by fraudsters.”
The Rise of Sophisticated Tactics
Scammers are now going beyond cold calls. They often gather personal details through texts, phishing emails, or social media before making the call. This preparation makes their impersonation attempts appear more convincing.
By understanding these warning signs, consumers can protect themselves and hang up before becoming a victim.
While scam calls are becoming increasingly sophisticated, the same three red flags remain reliable indicators: requests for sensitive details, promises of unexpected financial rewards, and instructions to install apps or click links.
By staying alert and questioning unusual requests, you can protect yourself from becoming a target of these increasingly deceptive tactics.
FAQs
Q1. What should I do if I receive a suspected scam call?
A. Hang up immediately and avoid giving out personal information. Report the number to your phone provider or relevant authority.
Q2. Can banks or HMRC call me directly?
A. Yes, but they will never ask for confidential information such as full passwords, PINs, or for you to install apps.
Q3. How do scammers make calls look legitimate?
A. They use caller ID spoofing to make it appear as though the call is from a trusted number.
Q4. Should I call back if I suspect a scam?
A. No. Instead, use official contact numbers from the organisation’s website to confirm legitimacy.
Q5. What apps can help block scam calls?
A. Many mobile providers offer free scam call protection, and apps like Truecaller or Hiya can provide additional filters.
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