Mobile scams are evolving faster than ever, with scammers finding creative ways to trick users into giving up valuable personal information. As mobile usage increases, the need for awareness and caution is critical. Here are some tips you can share with customers to help them stay vigilant about potential scams over the festive season. This way, instead of just selling them products or value-adds like Vodacom airtime vouchers, you’re doing more to build a relationship with your loyal customers.
Here’s how your customers can recognise different types of scams and protect themselves.
Beware Of Social Media Spam
Social media platforms are breeding grounds for scams. Fake profiles may send your customers links through direct messages or tag them in spammy posts. These links might lead to phishing websites or inject malware into your customers’ devices.
Your customers must avoid clicking on all unsolicited links from unknown users, no matter how innocent they may seem. The safety step is to verify if the link is from a trusted source.
Understanding SMS Phishing (Smishing)
Smishing is a sneaky tactic where scammers send SMS messages that look like they’re from reputable sources, urging your customers to click a link or reply. The message might be about a “free offer” or a “bank alert” that needs immediate attention. If your customer receives a text like this, they must avoid responding or clicking any links. Instead, they should contact their bank or service provider directly through their official website or customer service number to confirm if the message is legitimate.
Recognising Voice Phishing (Vishing)
Vishing involves scammers impersonating reputable organisations over the phone to extract sensitive information like log-in PINs, Vodacom airtime voucher PINs or account details. They may claim to be from your customers’ bank and say there’s an issue with your customers’ account that needs urgent attention. Remind your customers that their bank will never ask for personal security information over the phone.
Avoiding One-Ring Scams
In a one-ring scam, your customers’ phone rings briefly, tricking them into calling back. These numbers are usually linked to premium toll lines, charging exorbitant rates. This scam preys on curiosity and can be an expensive mistake.
Help your customers stay safe when they’re online or when they buy Vodacom airtime vouchers securely.
