Fraud Alerts
The Scam Works Like This:
Note: The callers do not ask for your credit card number — they already have it.
The person calling says, “This is (name), and I’m calling from the Security and Fraud Department at VISA. My Badge number is 12460. Your card has been flagged for an unusual purchase pattern, and I’m calling to verify the transaction. The card used was your VISA card that was issued by (name of bank). Did you purchase an Anti-Telemarketing Device for $497.99 from a Marketing company based in Arizona?”
When you say “NO”, the caller continues with, “Then we will be issuing a credit to your account. This is a company we have been watching and the charges range from $297.00 to $497.99, just under the $500.00 purchase pattern that flags most credit cards. Before your next statement, the credit will be sent to (caller gives you your address), is that correct?”
You say “yes”. The caller continues: “I will be starting a Fraud Investigation. If you have any questions, you should call the 800 number listed on the back of your card (1-800-VISA) and ask for Security. You will need to refer to this Control Number.” The caller then gives you a 6-digit number. “Do you need me to read it again?”
Here is the Important Part onHow the Scam Works:
The caller will ask you to read the 3 numbers to him. After you tell the caller the 3 numbers, he’ll say, “That is correct, I just needed to verify that the card has not been lost or stolen and that you still have your card. Do you have any other questions?” After you say “NO”, the caller then thanks you and states, “Don’t hesitate to call back”, and hangs up.
The cardholder actually says very little, and the caller never asks for or tells you the card number.
The real Visa® will never ask for anything on the card, they already know the information. If you give the scammers your 3-digit number, you think you’re receiving a credit. However, by the time you get your statement, you’ll see charges for purchases you didn’t make.