Place a horror phone call that drains your bank

SMARTPHONE users are urged not to answer calls marked as 'spam' or risk having their data and money stolen.

Experts from Keeper Security warned about the dangers of phone scams in a recent blog post.

“If you accidentally answer a spam call, scammers know your number is connected to a real person and can target you with more spam calls,” the cybersecurity firm said.

WHAT ARE PHONE CAMS?

Essentially, phone spam consists of bad actors trying to illegally obtain information or money from a victim over the phone.

They are typically addressed to a large number of people from an unknown source claiming to be from a person or company that is not them.

“These targeted spam calls will attempt to trick you into giving away your personal information, allowing cybercriminals to steal your money, your identity, and even your voice,” Keeper Security said.

“You should avoid answering spam calls to prevent cybercriminals from trying to steal your personal information,” the report said.

HOW TO IDENTIFY SPAM CALLS

There are a few tell-tale signs that you're getting a call from a scammer:

The first is that your phone displays a 'spam/scam likely' warning. If you see this, don't answer the phone.

Another sign of a spam caller is if the message appears to be pre-recorded.

However, it is important to note that many legitimate companies, such as healthcare providers, use pre-recorded messages.

If a caller asks you for personal information, it is probably a spam caller.

“They will try to trick you into giving up your personal information, such as your Social Security number,” Keeper Security said.

“However, legitimate companies should already have your personal information on file and would never ask for it over the phone.”

One of the biggest signs of a fraudulent call is if the message sounds urgent.

Scammers often use this tactic to pressure the recipient into revealing sensitive information.

If you receive a call with a deal that sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

“Some scammers will portray themselves as a company trying to sell a lot or trick you into thinking you've won something over the phone to lure you in and scam you,” Keeper Security warned.

Finally, if someone asks you for payment or money over the phone, it is most likely a scammer.

“Cybercriminals will often pose as banks, debt collectors or other large companies,” Keeper Security explains.

“They will call you about an unpaid amount that you need to pay to avoid jail time or to avoid losing your account.”

HOW TO STAY SAFE

Below, we've shared several expert-recommended tips on how to stay safe.

• Do not answer calls from unknown numbers.
• If you answer a call from an unknown number, be very careful with the information you provide.
• Register your telephone number with the National Do Not Call Register.
• Use a call blocking app.
• Be aware of the latest scams.

If you do get scammed, here are some things you should do:

• Report the scam to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
• Place a freeze on your credit report.
• Change your passwords for all your online accounts.