It's possible that this could be a scam, though it's difficult to say for sure based on just one instance. There are a few common scams that involve similar tactics, such as the "Yes" or "Voice" scam.
In the "Yes" or "Voice" scam, scammers try to get victims to say "Yes" during a phone call, and then they record the response. They may later use the recorded "Yes" as proof that the victim agreed to something they didn't actually agree to, such as signing up for a service or making a purchase. The goal is to deceive and manipulate the victim for financial gain or other malicious purposes.
While one occurrence might not be enough to draw definitive conclusions, it's essential to stay cautious and follow these tips to protect yourself from potential scams:
Avoid sharing personal information: Never share sensitive information over the phone, such as your Social Security number, bank account details, or passwords.
Be skeptical: If someone calls and asks for personal information, verification, or payment, be cautious, especially if the call seems unexpected or suspicious.
Don't confirm personal details: If someone asks, "Can you hear me?" or a similar question, avoid saying "Yes" or providing any personal information. Instead, respond with a question like, "Who is calling, and what is this about?"
Hang up and verify: If you receive a call that seems suspicious, hang up immediately. Look up the organization's official contact information (e.g., from their website) and call them directly to verify if they contacted you.
Register your phone number: Consider registering your phone number on the National Do Not Call Registry to reduce the number of unwanted telemarketing calls you receive.
Report suspicious calls: If you suspect a scam, report the incident to your local authorities or consumer protection agency.
Remember, scammers can use various tactics and might change their approach over time, so it's always essential to stay vigilant and protect your personal information.