How Hackers Use Phone Calls to Steal Your Data

[adiba jahan]

While a phone call cannot directly transmit viruses or malware to your device, scammers use psychological tricks and technical methods to gain access to your sensitive information. Here’s how:

1. Vishing (Voice Phishing)
Vishing is a form of phishing that uses voice calls to trick individuals into revealing personal or financial information. For example, a scammer may call pretending to be from your bank, asking you to "verify" your identity. They may ask for:

Social Security numbers

Bank account or credit card numbers

One-time passcodes (OTP)

Passwords or PINs

These details can then be used to access your online accounts, steal money, or commit identity theft.

2. Spoofing Caller ID
Scammers can manipulate caller ID to make it directors managers email list it look like the call is coming from a trusted source, like your bank, your employer, or even a government agency. This increases the chances that you’ll trust the caller and share sensitive information.

3. Installing Malware via Follow-Up Links or Apps
While the phone call itself can’t install malware, scammers may send you a link via SMS (text message) or direct you to download an app during or after the call. If you follow their instructions, you may unknowingly install spyware or ransomware that can steal your data.

4. Recording and Voice Biometrics
Some sophisticated attacks involve recording your voice to use in biometric authentication systems. For instance, if your bank uses voice recognition to verify your identity, a stolen voice sample could be used to bypass security protocols.

What Data Can Be Stolen Through These Methods?
If you fall victim to a phone scam, attackers may gain access to:

Bank account information

Credit card details

Passwords and login credentials

Social Security and ID numbers

Personal contacts and conversations

Two-factor authentication codes

In some cases, this can lead to unauthorized transactions, identity theft, or access to your email and social media accounts.