The Better Business Bureau is warning consumers about a terrifying phone scam that could allow fraudsters to purchase expensive items using your voice.
The “Can You Hear Me?” scam has been used in the past to get businesses to buy office supplies and directory ads they never actually ordered. Now, it’s targeting individuals too.
For the last few days of January, more than half of the reports to BBB Scam Tracker have been about this one scam.
The calls are about vacation packages, cruises, warranties and other big ticket items.
You get a call from someone who almost immediately asks, “Can you hear me?” Their goal is to get you to answer, “Yes.”
The “person” on the other end may just be a robocall recording your conversation… and that “Yes” answer you gave can later be edited to make it sound like you authorized a major purchase.
BBB is urging people to use their caller ID to screen calls and consider leaving unfamiliar numbers unanswered.
If someone calls and asks “Can you hear me?”, don’t answer “yes.” Instead, just hang up. Scammers might change their tactics if you catch on so don’t answer any of their questions.
Make a note of the number and report it to the BBB who will warn others and let law enforcement agencies know.
You can also consider joining a Do Not Call Registry to cut down on unsolicited calls.
You should also check your bank and credit card statements regularly for unauthorized charges.
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