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Phone Scam Cost Driver Thousands
23 Mar
Summary
- A man was promised a discount and free phone but was scammed.
- The scammer used personal details to gain trust and manipulate the victim.
- Tech support fraud cost consumers nearly $1.5 billion in 2024.
An unexpected voicemail promising a significant discount and a new phone led an Illinois resident into a costly scam. The caller, who already possessed personal details like his name and address, convinced the man he was speaking with his wireless provider.
Guided through an app, the victim ordered a new phone, paying only sales tax of approximately $98. Subsequent calls instructed him to send the device back, claiming a mix-up, and offered replacement phones as compensation. He again ordered an iPhone and an iPad, only to be told to return these as well.
This type of incident is classified as tech or customer support fraud by the FBI. Nationwide, 36,002 complaints were filed in 2024, resulting in nearly $1.5 billion in losses, making it the third most costly scam category.
Scammers often begin with robocalls or fake messages, using stolen personal data to appear legitimate. They combine urgency, familiarity, and tempting offers to deceive consumers. Experts advise skepticism towards unsolicited offers and caution against sharing device details or following instructions for purchases or shipments.
If targeted, victims should contact their bank, report the incident to the FTC or FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center, and notify the impersonated company. Prompt action may help recover funds and prevent further fraud.
