How to Deal with a Suspicious Phone Call

How to Deal with a Suspicious Phone Call

If someone calls you unexpectedly and starts asking for personal information, account details, passwords, PINs or security codes, don't feel pressured into responding.

Here's What to Say

"I don't give out personal information or account details during an unsolicited phone call. I'll contact the organisation directly using a trusted number."

Then end the call.

Legitimate organisations will understand and support your decision to verify their identity independently.

Be Aware of Spoofed Numbers

Criminals can manipulate the number that appears on your phone. This is known as number spoofing.

A call may appear to come from your bank, the police, HMRC, Microsoft, Amazon, or another trusted organisation when it is actually coming from a fraudster.

Never trust a caller simply because you recognise the number displayed on your phone.

Be Aware of Pressure Tactics

Scammers will often try to keep you on the phone. They may create a sense of urgency, claim there is an immediate problem with your bank account, computer or personal information, or attempt to shock and scare you into acting quickly.

They do this to stop you taking time to think, verify what they are saying, contact the organisation yourself, or seek advice from someone you trust.

Common examples include:

The stronger the pressure, the more suspicious you should be.

Protect Yourself

✅ Never give out passwords, PINs or one-time security codes.

✅ Hang up if you are unsure who is calling.

✅ Contact the organisation yourself using a trusted telephone number from its official website, app, bank card or previous correspondence.

✅ Be aware that phone numbers can be spoofed and should not be relied upon as proof of identity.

✅ Review your social media privacy settings regularly. Scammers will obtain information about you, from social media and other online sources, then use it to try and convince you that they are genuine.  

✅ Think carefully before sharing any personal information online. Do your really want your CV available for all to see?

Remember Your ABC

Never Assume. Never Believe. ALWAYS CONFIRM.

If you receive an unexpected call asking for information, don't be rushed into making a decision. Take control of the situation, end the call, and then verify the caller independently. Be curious. 

Hang Up. Look Up. Call Back.

When you make the call to a trusted and thoroughly verified number, you are in control of who you are speaking to. 

To quickly contact your bank call 159

Don't let the caller provide the number you should call back on. Fraudsters may provide a fake number that connects straight back to them or an accomplice. Always find the contact details yourself and verify them independently using official websites, apps, bank cards, statements or previous correspondence.

Ideally, call back using a different phone. If this is not possible, wait a few minutes before redialling, particularly if using a landline.

Never trust the number. Trust the verification process.