Key Takeaways:
- Scammers are hiding fake phone numbers on official websites like Apple, PayPal, and Netflix.
- They trick users into calling these fake numbers, even if you check the website’s address.
- This scam can fool even careful people who think they’re safe.
- You need to be extra careful when seeing phone numbers on websites.
A New Trick to Steal Your Trust
Imagine you’re on Netflix, trying to fix your account. You see a phone number on the website and think, “Okay, I’ll call them for help.” But what if that number is fake? That’s exactly what scammers are doing now.
They’ve found a sneaky way to put their fake phone numbers on real websites. So even if you check the website’s address to make sure it’s real, the scammer’s number might still be there. This trick is getting worse, and it’s catching a lot of people off guard.
How Does This Scam Work?
Here’s what happens: When you visit a real website, like Apple or PayPal, the scammer’s fake phone number appears on the page. It looks real because it’s mixed in with other real information. For example, you might see a message saying, “Need help? Call us now!” with a phone number.
But here’s the catch: That number isn’t from the real company. It’s from the scammer. And once you call, they’ll try to trick you into giving them money or personal information.
Why This Scam Is Dangerous
Most people know to check the website address to avoid scams. For example, they make sure it’s www.netflix.com and not something fake. But this scam doesn’t care about the address. It puts the fake number right on the real website. So even if you’re careful, you could still fall for it.
How to Stay Safe
Here’s what you can do to protect yourself:
Don’t trust phone numbers on websites. Even if it’s on a real site, it might be fake. Instead, look up the company’s contact information through their official app or a saved email.
Be wary of pop-ups or urgent messages. If a website suddenly says, “Call us now,” it might be a scam. Take your time, and don’t rush to call.
Never give out personal info over the phone. If someone asks for your password, Social Security number, or payment info, hang up. Real companies won’t ask for that.
What’s Next?
This scam is getting smarter, and it’s important to stay alert. Always double-check any phone number you see, even on websites you trust. Remember, your safety starts with you. Stay smart online!