The phone rings, and the caller says they’re from your cellphone provider. They have a discount for you, a better plan, or a free new phone. All you need to do is log in to your account while they stay on the line, or read them a code.
The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC) has received reports of exactly this. Sometimes the goal is your account itself. Sometimes the caller talks people into opening a new account with a different provider, then claims the wrong item was sent and asks them to ship the new phone or tablet to another address. Either way, the fraudster ends up with a device, your personal information, or both.
Warning signs
- An unexpected call, text or email offering a discount, upgrade or new device.
- Pressure to decide right now, or an offer that’s only good for a limited time.
- Being asked to log in while the caller waits on the line.
- Being asked for a password, PIN, security code or two-step login code.
- Being asked for your driver’s licence or Social Insurance Number.
- Being told to send a device you received to an address they give you.
The habit that stops it
End the call, then contact your provider yourself using the number on your bill, your account or the company’s official website. Never use a number or link the caller gives you. If the offer is real, the provider can tell you about it.
A few more rules worth sharing with everyone in the house or the office:
- Never share a password, PIN or one-time code with anyone who contacts you.
- Don’t log in to an account while an unknown caller is guiding you.
- If a phone or tablet shows up that you didn’t order, contact the provider directly about returning it.
Those one-time codes are the heart of two-step login, so treat them like a password. And if you’ve already shared something you shouldn’t have, our post on what to do in the first hour walks through the next steps.
You can read the CAFC’s own guidance on service frauds, and report a scam to them there.
Got a call or text you’re not sure about? New clients: one free 15-minute consultation. Call (403) 381-7080 or send us a message. Already a client and need help now? Start here.