Security

Vishing

Phishing by phone call. The caller pretends to be a bank, support team or authority and pushes you to share codes, install software or move money. Hang up and call back on a number you already trust.

How it works

Vishing uses a voice conversation to obtain information, money or access through deception. The caller may impersonate a bank, support provider or official organization. Pressure, an apparent authority and a convincing story can make the request feel urgent without making it legitimate.

A practical example

A caller might say a suspicious transfer requires moving funds to a supposedly safe account. Another might request remote access to investigate an invented computer fault. These are illustrative scenarios: the requested action matters more than a familiar voice or the number shown on the screen.

What to check

End the unexpected call and contact the organization using a number obtained independently, such as its official app or existing account documents. Do not use a callback number supplied by the caller. Discuss unusual payment or access requests with the responsible person before authorizing them. Keep a record of what was requested.

Limits and safe use

Caller identification can be falsified, and voice recognition alone is not reliable authentication. A caller knowing your name also does not establish authorization. If access or financial information was already provided, promptly notify the relevant provider through a trusted channel. Hanging up prevents further interaction but does not undo permissions or payments already granted.

Technical sources

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