Just had a survey telephone call purporting to be from the bank. I expressed security doubts and she offered to give me a phone number to call her back and that I could check that the survey is announced on their website.
I agreed but the very first answer would have been of use to a fraudster who was already in possession of significant information.
I dislike being put in this position, not to say the fact that if phone calls became regular then my guard would inevitably drop. I had to stop participating thus wasting both our time.
Just a little reminder not to give anything away whatsoever.
Just a little reminder not to give anything away whatsoever.
I'm adopting that approach from now on. Up until now I'd have played along with a survey as I wasn't giving away any personal details. I didn't appreciate I probably was giving away information without realising it.
For instance I've just had a phone call and the first thing they asked me was the make of my television set. Chances are at the end of the call they would try and sell me something. I haven't given away any personal information so I can always reject it. But they have phoned me up so they likely know my address as well. I've just confirmed what make of tv I have. Had the call progressed this could inform a potential burglar of a high value tv set at a definite location. Ok - I accept a burglar is unlikely to be after a large tv and will more likely go for smaller high value items. Just showing that you give out info without realising it.
The phone call was ended with me saying "I'm not giving out any information to an unavailable number." I think anyone in future wanting me to take part in maket research or anything will be met with the same line. And that will be practically any cold caller as they are always fom a withheld number.
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Never buy black socks from a normal shop. They shaft you every time.
