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Robocall Cyber Threat Is Growing: Top 5 Ways To Stay Protected
As cybersecurity expert focused on consumer security, I’ve observed a concerning trend in the ever-evolving cyber threat landscape. The recent incident involving Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) provider Telnyx has exposed the alarming growth of robocall scams and their devastating impact on unsuspecting victims.
Robocalls have become increasingly sophisticated, with scammers using AI-powered voice impersonations to convincingly pose as government agencies or credible organizations. These automated calls often demand immediate action or payment, leaving unsuspecting individuals vulnerable to identity theft, financial loss, and further fraudulent activities.
In the face of such a growing cyber threat, it is essential for consumers to take proactive measures to protect themselves from these scams. To this end, I’ve outlined five crucial steps below:
1. Utilize Call Blocking and Screening Features
To minimize unwanted calls, enable built-in call screening and blocking tools available on your smartphone. Registering your number with the National Do Not Call Registry will also significantly reduce legitimate telemarketing calls. Additionally, consider utilizing third-party apps such as Hiya or Nomorobo to filter out known scam numbers.
2. Recognize Red Flags in Calls
When receiving an automated call claiming to be from a government agency, exercise extreme caution and skepticism. Never share personal or financial information over the phone unless you are certain of the caller’s legitimacy. If you receive a suspicious call, hang up and independently verify the contact information through the official website of the organization.
3. Avoid Falling for Payment Scams
Government agencies will never ask for payment via gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers. If someone demands immediate payment over the phone, assume it is a scam. To avoid falling prey to these tactics, be wary of any calls that urge you to act quickly and make impromptu financial decisions.
4. Report Suspicious Calls
If you receive a fraudulent robocall, promptly report it to the FCC’s Consumer Complaint Center or the Federal Trade Commission. Notify your VoIP provider or phone carrier if you continue to receive frequent scam calls, enabling them to take swift action against these threats.
5. Secure Personal Data
Be mindful of where you share your phone number online to minimize exposure to data harvesting. Regularly check whether your personal information has been compromised in data breaches by utilizing tools like Have I Been Pwned. Consider using virtual phone numbers for online sign-ups to protect your primary number from being exploited.
The recent Telnyx incident underscores the pressing need for stronger regulations and industry standards to combat this growing cyber threat. The FCC’s proposed $4.5 million fine against Telnyx serves as a precedent for accountability, but more substantial action is required.
VoIP providers must strengthen their identity verification processes to prevent fraudulent account creation. AI-powered call authentication systems are also essential in real-time detection and blocking of scam calls, significantly reducing the risk of large-scale fraud.
Furthermore, collaborative efforts between government agencies and the telecom industry are crucial for developing robust anti-robocall frameworks.
Source: http://www.forbes.com
