I consider myself Internet savvy – enough to see and skip phishing attempts. Ponzi’s constantly learning how to detect lures, but that hasn’t kept me from using the OpenDNS phishing filter on our home network (read Boost Your Internet Speed – Free for more information). Given the subject matter in last night’s Free VoIP Gizmo, Lockergnomie Dan Eklund forwarded me a message that came to him from what appears to be his ISP:
According to USTelecoms Crossroads Express July 17, 2006 issue, A new telephony-based version of “phishing” dubbed “vishing” has evolved from traditional Web-based phishing scams. The new technique has been used by criminals to collect details from credit cards, including the three-digit CVV security code, expiration date and account number. “Vishing” scams usually begin when the criminal gets a cheap and easily available VoIP number and then configures an automated dialing system to call people. When the call is answered, an automated recording alerts the person that his or her credit card has been compromised and the consumer should call a phone number immediately to correct the problem. The phone number is often a toll-free number with a spoofed caller ID of a legitimate financial company.
A computer-generated voice then instructs listeners to enter their 16-digit credit card number, expiration dates and verification codes. Once this information is entered, the “visher” has the information necessary to place fraudulent charges on the consumer’s card. Never call a telephone number provided in a phone call or an e-mail regarding possible security issues with a credit card or bank account. Only the phone number on the back of a credit card or bank statement is a valid number to discuss credit card account information.
I suppose it’s better to warn y’all about this now – before it’s too late. You might care enough about your friends and family members to forward this note on to them, too. It sounds like common sense – never do this, never do that. However, I’ve seen really stupid things happen right before my eyes. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
[tags]security,phishing,voip,scam,identity theft,internet security,scam artists,vish,vishing,computer security,credit card theft[/tags]