On the Phone

Scenario 1

The phone rings. A very pleasant-sounding woman is on the line from your credit card company. According to the woman, there has been a rash of card fraud in your area, and the credit card company needs your card number to verify you haven’t been targeted. Do you:

1. Give her your credit card number.
2. Refuse and hang up.
3. Take the woman’s contact info and call the credit card company’s customer service line to verify the woman’s request.

As long as you didn’t pick A, you should be okay. Remember, a key goal to keep your information secure is to never give it away.
Option B works, but you’re leaving yourself open. You’ve been targeted by a phishing scheme, and by not alerting anyone, you’re no better off before the phone call.
By alerting the credit card company in option C, you may be able to flag your account for potentially suspicious activity or even help catch the data thieves.

Scenario 2

The power company calls. During a routine audit, they find a problem with your account. They need your social security number to match to their records, or they’ll be forced to shut off your electricity. Do you:

1. Ask questions, ultimately refusing the request.
2. Give the caller your social security number.
3. Break out the candles.

When in doubt, start asking questions. Why does the power company need your social security number? Why is there no written warning? What is the person’s name, title, and extension? Even if the call sounds legitimate, ask for the problem in writing or call the power company on your own. Never give out your information to people who call asking for it.
The power company will not suddenly turn off your power because of one phone call. Even if there were account problems, the power company won’t end service based on a single phone call. Messages with senses of urgency and dire consequences should raise flags of concern.

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