Most people are used to ignoring calls from numbers they do not recognize. It is often the easiest way to avoid unnecessary interruptions during the day.
However, curiosity can sometimes take over. Many people end up answering just to see who is calling, which is exactly what scammers rely on.
Requests for banking details are a clear warning sign, and most people already know to avoid sharing sensitive information. Fake delivery messages and phishing emails are also widely known methods.
But scammers continue to adapt. They now use more subtle approaches that may not seem suspicious at first, making it easier to catch people off guard.
Adam Gordon, an IT instructor with ITProTV, explains that most scams have two main goals. They aim to collect personal information that can be used for identity theft and to persuade people to send money directly.
One method that has gained attention involves a recorded voice asking a simple question like “Can you hear hear me?” at the start of the call.
However, the real purpose behind the question is to get you to respond with a clear “yes.” That response can then be recorded and stored.
“This phone scam is particularly frightening [because] they simply rely on the human behavior of answering a quick question,” says Matthew Shirley, who leads offensive cybersecurity operations at Fortalice.
This type of tactic relies on speed and confusion. The caller asks a quick question, and most people answer without thinking, which gives the scammer what they need.
Although this method may not work in every situation, it is still a risk that experts say should not be ignored.
The Federal Trade Commission has also shared guidance on how to recognize these types of scams and avoid falling into them.
They explain: “When people don’t pick up, the callers leave messages saying the imaginary ‘loan application is on hold because the business needs more information, so please call back’.”
These patterns are often designed to create urgency and pressure, making it harder for people to stop and question what is happening. When calls come in repeatedly from different numbers, it can feel like something important needs attention.
In reality, these tactics are meant to push people into reacting quickly. Taking a moment to pause and avoid engaging with unknown callers can help reduce the risk of becoming a target.
Scammers depend on small interactions to build their schemes, and even a short reply can sometimes give them an advantage. Being aware of these tactics helps you stay one step ahead.
While not every unknown call is a scam, treating them carefully can help you avoid unnecessary risks and keep your personal information secure.
