'Vishing' incidents rise

Thursday, 31 Jan 2008. Categories: USA

More people are becoming victims of internet fraud as tricksters use rapidly-evolving technology to access people's personal details.

A report on the WTOP radio website claims incidents of 'vishing' are occurring at an "alarming rate" and are putting consumers at risk.

Vishers operate through leaving voice messages or sending emails to victims and asking them to ring a number in order to reactivate their allegedly suspended or deactivated bank account.

A new form of phishing for information, cyber criminals use cheap technology in the form of voice over internet protocol (VoIP) that not only allows them to make cheap calls, but also to hide their identity, the FBI states.

The WTOP report warns consumers that some vishers now use text messaging to mobile phones in order to perpetrate their crimes and compromise others' security.

Dan Larkin, head of the cyber initiative and resource fusion unit of the FBI, suggested it is difficult to estimate the prevalence of vishing, as potential victims report incidents as phishing or spam.

However, he added: "But we know it's out there. It's happening."

Responding to the reported online threats of vishing, consumer watchdog Which? suggested using the regular contact numbers supplied by a financial institution - rather than one listed in an email or other message - in order to verify whether it is a genuine message.

It also advised consumers to use a spam filter to block any unsolicited emails.

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'Vishing' incidents rise

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