The National Cybersecurity Institute of Spain has warned about the increase in telephone fraud attempts in Barcelona, Girona, and Tarragona. The main identified risk lies in responding affirmatively to questions from strangers who call from unregistered numbers, a practice that can lead to the manipulation of the recording to impersonate the victim in banking procedures or unauthorized contracts.
Warnings about phone phishing techniques
The technique known as phone phishing allows cybercriminals to obtain personal or financial information through deception. Scammers can access sensitive data such as passwords, card numbers, or banking information. Subsequently, this data is used in fraud or even in extortion and virtual kidnapping schemes, where the obtained information is used to intimidate the contacted person.
According to experts, criminals usually build credible stories thanks to access to stolen databases, which reinforces their alibi during the call. The recording of a verbal authorization, such as a simple "yes," can be used to sign contracts or authorize operations without the actual consent of the affected party.
Recommendations from authorities to avoid fraud
Authorities recommend cutting off communication once the name of the company, the reason for the contact, and the official number have been ascertained. It is essential not to provide additional information, even if the caller mentions personal data during the conversation. It is advisable to always contact the entity through certified and independent channels, such as the official app or website, and to disregard any number provided during the call.
- Avoid responding affirmatively to questions from unknown numbers
- Do not provide personal or banking information over the phone
- Verify the identity of the entity through official channels
- Be wary of contact numbers found in paid internet advertisements
The United States Federal Trade Commission warns that scammers position fake numbers through internet ads, making it difficult to identify the legitimate call. Transparency and reporting these fraud attempts contribute to collective protection against cybercriminals.
"Transparency helps to make fraud attempts visible and facilitates collective protection against cybercriminals" - Security Guide, Federal Trade Commission
Surveillance in the metropolitan area and regions
The Mossos d'Esquadra and the Local Police of municipalities such as L'Hospitalet, Sabadell, Girona, or Reus maintain surveillance over this type of crime. INCIBE insists that citizen collaboration and caution when receiving unknown calls are essential to curb the advance of these practices.
There is a risk that the call may be part of extortion or virtual kidnapping schemes, so the recommendation is to maintain discretion and not respond to requests for personal information under any circumstances.