Phone Calls Scams
Voice scams (vishing) — how fraudsters use phone calls to steal money and data.
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
Voice calls create a sense of immediacy and authority that makes them one of the most effective scam delivery channels. Whether it is a robocall claiming your Social Security number has been suspended or a live agent impersonating your bank, the pressure of a real-time conversation can override scepticism in a way that a written message cannot.
This guide covers the vishing (voice phishing) scam types responsible for the largest losses, the warning signs during a call, and the habits that protect you.
Common scams on Phone Calls
Bank impersonation calls
Callers pose as fraud teams from your bank, claim your account is compromised, and pressure you to move funds to a 'safe account' they control.
Government impersonation robocalls
Automated calls claim your national ID, tax account, or immigration status is at risk and demand immediate payment or verification.
Tech-support calls
Callers claim to be from a major technology company, say your computer has a virus, and guide you into granting remote access or buying gift cards.
Prize and lottery calls
A caller congratulates you on winning a prize and asks for a fee or personal details to release the winnings.
Common red flags
- Unexpected calls about account problems, legal threats, or prizes
- Pressure to act immediately or stay on the line
- Requests to transfer money to a 'safe account' or buy gift cards
- Callers who already know some personal details to establish false credibility
- Requests to download remote-access software
- Caller ID that looks official — numbers can be spoofed
How to protect yourself
- Hang up and call back on the organisation's publicly listed number to verify any unexpected claim
- Never transfer money or buy gift cards based on a phone call alone
- Do not allow remote access to your device based on an unsolicited call
- Register with your national do-not-call list to reduce unsolicited calls
- Use a call-blocking app that filters known scam numbers
How to report it
- Report scam calls to your national telecommunications regulator
- Report financial fraud to your national fraud authority
- Contact your bank immediately if funds were transferred during or after the call
Frequently asked questions
Can scammers spoof my bank's real phone number?
Yes. Caller ID spoofing is inexpensive and widely available. A call appearing to come from your bank's genuine number is not proof it is actually your bank. Always hang up and dial the number on the back of your card.