SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO AM) - Phone scammers are using your own voice against you by editing calls to make it sound like you authorized a major purchase.
Jessie Schmidt with the Better Business Bureau says the scammers get you to answer yes to a question.
Schmidt says one of the more common questions is "Can you hear me?" Most everyone will automatically answer yes instinctively. The scammers may just be a robocall recording the conversation.
The familiar scam has been used in the past to coerce businesses into buying office supplies and directory ads that were never ordered. She says when victims complain, the scammers play back the edited recording with the yes voice which appears to signal approval.
Schmidt says screen calls, don't answer unfamiliar numbers, do not answer callers questions and keep an eye on bank and credit card statements.
More than half of the recent reports to BBB Scam Tracker have been over this single scam. Targeted citizens say the calls are about vacation packages, cruises, warranties and other big ticket items.
If someone asks "Can you hear me," don't answer yes and just hang up. She says scammers will change questions as the public catches on, so be ready for different questions designed to get you to say yes.
