Hello, Can You Hear Me?

BEWARE OF THE CAN YOU HEAR ME SCAM

Did you know that many companies use voice-automated systems as part of their customer service technology?  While it is often cost effective for companies and time saving for customers, it’s these very systems that make the Can You Hear Me scam so successful and dangerous.  The Can You Hear Me scammer’s one and only goal is to get you to say “YES” to anything!

 

Can You Hear Me Scam

Can you hear me?  

Is this Mr. Smith?

Is this the lady of the house?  

Are you still there?

Are you the homeowner?

 

 

HERE’S HOW THE CAN YOU HEAR ME SCAM WORKS:

You receive a call, typically appearing to be from a local number, and the person or recording asks if you can hear them.  There is often fumbling or static on the line and they might apologize for having dropped the line, or claim to be having trouble with their headset, or some other issue.  Answer “YES” and YOU’VE BEEN SCAMMED!  Once they have your recorded “YES”, they can use that recording to “hack” voice-automated systems and place unauthorized charges on your credit cards, phone, and utilities, or sign you up for products or services without your knowledge.

HERE’S HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF FROM THE CAN YOU HEAR ME SCAM:

  • Don’t interact with the caller.
  • Don’t talk to a live person, this could lead to more calls.
  • Don’t give details if asked for your personal information.
  • Check your account statements regularly and report suspicious charges immediately.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU HAVE FALLEN VICTIM TO THE CAN YOU HEAR ME SCAM:

If you believe you’ve been a victim of consumer fraud, you can File a complaint online or contact the Attorney General’s Office (Phoenix 602.542.5763 / Tucson 520.628.6648 / outside Phoenix or Tucson metro areas 800.352.8431).