Beware of BT Openreach Scam Calls
Scam calls are the bane of any phone owner. Not only are they a nuisance to receive, but some are so realistic that even the most tech-savvy individual could fall for them. This is why it's important to stay vigilant against potential threats on the other end of the line.
Treken has been providing IT and phone support to the businesses of Dorset, Hampshire, and Wiltshire for over 20 years. In this post, we explain how you can tell if a call from BT is a scam, where to report a suspected scam call, and what to do if excess scam calls are disrupting your business’ operations.
BT Openreach scams should you be aware of
The so-called ‘BT Openreach scam’ is one such threat. Posing as a representative of internet provider BT Openreach, the caller will try to convince you that there are issues with your internet connection. They will ask you to download a third-party application to give them access to your computer, supposedly so they can “fix” the issue. In reality, they will search through your computer to gather your bank details, account passwords, and other confidential information.
This isn’t the only Openreach scam around, either. Some scammers posing as BT contact businesses and tie them down into long, costly contracts with no option to leave. These scams be challenging to spot at first, as their branding is often near identical to the real thing.
How do I tell if a call from BT is a scam?
Be wary of any caller asking you to share confidential information with them. As stated on BT’s website: “Openreach will never ask you for personal information like bank details - either in person, over the phone, or by email. We’ll also never ask to remotely access your computer, phone, or tablet.”
Other red flags include recorded messages telling you your service will be disconnected, or automated messages asking you to press options on your phone to contact BT - you’ll be taken directly to a scammer if you do.
Trust your instincts. If you have any doubts at all about a calls legitimacy, hang up.
You can report suspected scam calls to BT via their website.
What can I do if my business keeps receiving scam calls?
Most businesses have their phone number clearly listed on their website, social media pages, and directories. Although necessary for letting customers get in touch, this makes them an easy target for scammers.
One or two scam calls can be dealt with without too much hassle, but an excess of scam calls can block up your phone lines and prevent legitimate customers from getting in contact with you. It will also put your business’s security at risk - the more scam calls your business receives, the more likely it is that an unwary employee will be caught out by one.
If your business has become inundated with scam calls and you’re not sure how to deal with them, outside assistance may be your best course of action.
At Treken, we specialise in dealing with IT and phone concerns for SMEs. We can help protect your business from scam callers, as well as address any other security risks your business may be exposed to. You’ll be left with total peace of mind that your business is safe from any external threats it may face.
Get in touch online or call us on 01202 612333 to get started.
