Spoofing is when a caller disguises the number they are calling from by changing their caller ID.

Experienced this week was a call from what appeared to be a local cell phone number. The answering person was told by an automated voice that their Visa debit card was restricted from out-of-state use due to certain activity and it needed to be verified to be used out of state. It states that you can call or “Press 1” to be transferred, but the system never provided a call back number.

Upon pressing one, the system asked for verification of billing information like ZIP code, social security number, the debit card numbers, the security number on the back of the card, and then the card PIN. At each stage, the answering person entered the numbers, which the system read back and said to “Press 1” if correct. After providing the last piece of information, the system advised that the debit card was unlocked and concluded the call.

The automated system sounded official and no live person ever spoke. If you receive such a call, hang up without providing any information.

If you have a concern that there might be a real problem with your finances, contact your bank or financial institution yourself so that you initiate contact with a verified and trusted source.