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Scam Calls

All articles tagged with #scam calls

Turn on iPhone's built-in scam screening in iOS 26 to block unknown calls
technology1 month ago

Turn on iPhone's built-in scam screening in iOS 26 to block unknown calls

Apple’s iOS 26 adds a built-in, Siri-powered call-screening feature that acts as a bouncer for unknown numbers. After updating to iOS 26, go to Settings > Phone > Screen Unknown Callers and choose Never, Ask Reason for Calling, or Silence; the tool lets Siri ask why the caller is calling and can show a transcription of the call so you can decide to answer or ignore. FTC’s Do Not Call List can also help; the feature is designed to reduce robocalls without requiring third‑party apps.

FBI Alerts: Avoid Installing This App on Your Devices
security7 months ago

FBI Alerts: Avoid Installing This App on Your Devices

The FBI warns against installing apps from unsolicited messages and advises never to engage with scam calls or texts, as these are increasingly used to steal money through fake tech support, government impersonations, and malicious links, with victims losing their savings. Staying safe involves ignoring suspicious communications and reporting scams promptly.

Ohio Man, 81, Fatally Shoots Uber Driver After Scam Calls Target Both
crime1 year ago

Ohio Man, 81, Fatally Shoots Uber Driver After Scam Calls Target Both

An 81-year-old Ohio man has been indicted on murder, kidnapping, and felonious assault charges after fatally shooting an Uber driver, Loletha Hall, whom he mistakenly believed was involved in scam phone calls targeting them both. William Brock received threatening calls demanding money, and when Hall arrived at his home to retrieve a package as instructed by the caller, Brock shot her multiple times. The original scam calls to both Brock and Hall are still under investigation.

"Scammers' Preferred U.S. Carriers and Top 12 Phone Numbers to Watch Out for"
technology2 years ago

"Scammers' Preferred U.S. Carriers and Top 12 Phone Numbers to Watch Out for"

A study by background check company BeenVerified revealed that scammers prefer using VoIP providers Onvoy and TextNow, along with mobile carriers AT&T and T-Mobile, for their mobile scams. Non-fixed VoIP numbers were used for 60.59% of scam calls, followed by 24.11% using mobile carrier networks. Text scams and impersonating credit card and banking firms were identified as popular scam techniques. BeenVerified advises caution, including checking incoming phone numbers, thinking before acting, and not providing personal information to protect against scams.

FCC Imposes Record $300M Fine on Robocallers for Spam Calls
technology2 years ago

FCC Imposes Record $300M Fine on Robocallers for Spam Calls

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has imposed a record $300 million fine on a robocaller engaged in a complex scheme to sell vehicle service contracts under false pretenses. The robocaller, operating under various names, had been scamming people since 2018. The FCC's action resulted in a 99% reduction in auto warranty calls. However, the collection of the fine is uncertain, as it requires evaluation and prosecution by the Justice Department. The FCC is seeking the authority to collect fines directly, as current processes often result in unpaid or reduced fines due to loopholes and limited resources.

FCC Takes Action Against Illegal Robocallers
technology2 years ago

FCC Takes Action Against Illegal Robocallers

The FCC has ordered voice service providers to block One Eye, a global gateway provider that enabled robocall scams. The company served as an "on-ramp" to US phone networks from outside the country. The FCC has been focused on increasing its ability to enforce robocalls. The block has teeth thanks to the FCC's Gateway Provider Order issued in May 2022.