Beware of the 'Say Yes' Phone Scam: BBB Warns of Potential Fraudsters

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) has issued a warning about a prevalent phone scam that has been dubbed the 'Say Yes' scam. This scam is designed to trick victims into saying the word "yes" during a phone call, which can then be used by fraudsters to authorize charges on a credit card, sign up for services, or commit other forms of financial fraud. Understanding how this scam works and knowing how to protect yourself can help you avoid falling victim to these deceptive tactics.

How the 'Say Yes' Scam Works

The 'Say Yes' scam is deceptively simple. It typically begins with a phone call from an unknown number, often with a local area code or one that appears to be from a legitimate business. When you answer, the scammer may ask a question that is likely to elicit a "yes" response, such as:

• "Can you hear me?"
• "Are you the homeowner?"
• "Is this [your name]?"

Once the victim responds with "yes," the scammer records the response. This recording can later be edited and used to authorize charges on the victim’s accounts, sign them up for unwanted services, or commit other types of fraud.

Scammer Tactics:

• Caller ID Spoofing: Scammers may use caller ID spoofing to make the call appear as though it is coming from a reputable company or a local number, increasing the likelihood that the victim will answer the call.
• Pressure to Respond Quickly: The scammer may create a sense of urgency or pressure the victim to respond quickly, making it more likely that they will say "yes" without thinking.

Potential Consequences of the 'Say Yes' Scam

While saying "yes" during a phone call might seem harmless, the consequences can be significant if the scammer is able to use the recording to commit fraud. Victims may find unauthorized charges on their credit card statements, unexpected withdrawals from their bank accounts, or bills for services they never signed up for.

Key Risks:

• Unauthorized Charges: The recorded "yes" can be used to authorize payments for products or services you never agreed to purchase.
• Identity Theft: In some cases, scammers may use the recording as part of a broader identity theft scheme, combining it with other personal information to open accounts or access existing ones.
• Legal Complications: Victims may face challenges in disputing the charges or services, especially if the scammer has manipulated the recording to make it sound like the victim consented to the transaction.

How to Protect Yourself from the 'Say Yes' Scam

Protecting yourself from the 'Say Yes' scam involves being vigilant about how you respond to unsolicited phone calls and taking steps to safeguard your personal information.

Steps to Take:

1. Don’t Answer Unknown Numbers: If you don’t recognize the number, let the call go to voicemail. If the call is important, the caller will leave a message.
2. Avoid Saying “Yes”: If you do answer a call from an unknown number, be cautious about how you respond. Instead of saying "yes," consider answering with “Who is calling?” or “How can I help you?”
3. Hang Up on Suspicious Calls: If a caller asks you a question that seems designed to elicit a "yes" response, hang up immediately. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
4. Monitor Your Accounts: Regularly check your bank and credit card statements for any unauthorized transactions. If you notice anything suspicious, report it to your financial institution right away.
5. Report the Scam: If you believe you’ve been targeted by the 'Say Yes' scam, report it to the BBB, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), or your local consumer protection agency. These organizations track scams and work to prevent others from becoming victims.

Conclusion

The 'Say Yes' scam is a simple yet effective tactic used by fraudsters to trick victims into unknowingly authorizing charges or signing up for services. By being aware of this scam and following the steps outlined above, you can protect yourself from falling victim to this and similar phone scams. Stay vigilant, monitor your accounts, and remember that it’s always okay to hang up if something doesn’t feel right.

For more information and tips on how to protect yourself from scams, visit the Better Business Bureau.