Chances are your cell phone is in your hands, because you are likely reading this story on your phone.
Having your phone close is exactly what phone scammers are banking on. Experts say thieves are now more likely to target you on your cell phone and not the traditional landline. One estimate showed scammers are taking billions to the bank, stolen from millions of Americans
Stephanie King has noticed her cell phone ringing more often these days, and she says about five calls a week end up being from a scammer trying to pull a fast one.
"I've seen an increase," she said. "Six months ago I wasn't getting any."
Experts say Stephanie isn't the only one thieves are trying to dial up for dollars. A new survey found more scams are taking place on mobile phones and millennials are the most vulnerable. Over 27 million Americans lost $7.4 billion in the last year.
Why target cell phones? Experts say thieves know they're gold to us, which turns into gold for them.
So if you get a call from tech support, "this means that your computer is also one of those computer which has been badly infected." If you get a call from the Government saying you owe big bucks, hand up.
Trucaller, which did the survey, does offer apps and services to help identify scams. If you don't recognize the number that pops in your cell phone remember, if it's that important, they'll leave a message.
If you've been ripped off, here's how to report the scam:
FTC:
https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0076-phone-scams
FCC:
https://consumercomplaints.fcc.gov/hc/en-us
