Vishing (voice phishing)
Quick answer
Vishing is phishing carried out by phone call or voicemail, often impersonating a bank's fraud team, tech support, or a government office.
- Hang up and call back using the number on your card or the official website.
What it is
Vishing is phishing carried out by phone call or voicemail, often impersonating a bank's fraud team, tech support, or a government office.
How it works
A caller claims there is fraud, a debt, or a security issue and pressures you to move money, share codes, or install software, often while keeping you on the line.
Red flags to watch for
- A caller asking you to move money to a 'safe' account
- Requests for codes or remote access
- Pressure not to hang up or tell anyone
- Caller ID that looks official but cannot be verified
Example
A caller claims to be from your bank's fraud team and asks you to move money to a 'safe' account. This is risky because banks never ask you to transfer your own money this way.
What not to do
- Do not move money
- Do not share codes
- Do not install remote-access software
The safe next step
Hang up and call back using the number on your card or the official website.
Often seen on: Phone call, Voicemail.
Commonly targets: Bank customers, Older adults.
How to verify safely
- Do not use links, phone numbers, QR codes, or email addresses from the suspicious message.
- Open the official app or website yourself - type the address manually.
- Call a contact you have saved, or the number printed on your bank card.
- If you are threatened or in immediate danger, contact local emergency services or police.
How to report it
Report to your bank and national fraud authority.
Find official links for your country in the scam reporting directory.
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Frequently asked questions
What is a vishing (voice phishing)?
Vishing is phishing carried out by phone call or voicemail, often impersonating a bank's fraud team, tech support, or a government office.
How can I avoid a vishing (voice phishing)?
Hang up and call back using the number on your card or the official website.
What should I do if I have already been affected?
Contact your bank or the relevant provider through official channels, change any exposed passwords from a trusted device, and save evidence. See our recovery guides, and be wary of recovery scams that promise to get your money back for a fee.