Telephone fraud: Financial expert warns of sophisticated scam - prevent data misuse

Telephone fraud: Financial expert warns of sophisticated scam - prevent data misuse

According to a report by www.onetz.de Telephone fraudsters are currently using a sophisticated scam to steal sensitive data for switching electricity providers. They pose as “German consumer protection” and claim that due to the impending lifting of the electricity price cap, they need the current status of the electricity meter and the contract number with the electricity provider. Fortunately, in a specific case in Hirschau, the fraud was thwarted when the daughter of the person called became suspicious and stopped the fraudulent activities.

Unfortunately, this type of phone scam is not new and can have serious consequences. If fraudsters receive sensitive data, they can request a change of provider for the electricity tariff on behalf of the consumer. This means that long-term contracts can be concluded and commissions can be collected. This can lead to financial harm for consumers and personal safety is at risk due to the misuse of sensitive data.

The consumer advice center strongly advises against disclosing personal or confidential information over the telephone. In addition, she recommends that if there is evidence of fraudulent behavior, you should file a criminal complaint with the police in order to prosecute the criminal activity.

It is important to be vigilant and not to give out any personal information to strangers or dubious callers. In addition, evidence of fraudulent behavior should be documented and reported to the police. This is the only way to help stop this criminal activity and protect consumers.