Scam library
Phone scams at work: fake IT and bank calls (vishing)
A friendly voice from "IT" or "the bank" who just needs a minute of your time.
Short answer
Vishing is phishing by phone: a caller poses as IT support, the bank or a supplier and talks you into sharing codes, installing software or moving money.
How it works
Some scams skip email entirely and just call. The caller is friendly and confident: "Hi, it's Alex from IT, we're seeing errors on your computer" or "This is your bank's fraud team."
Then they ask you to do something: install a support tool so they can "fix" your computer, read out a code, confirm your password, or move money to a "safe" account.
Caller ID can be faked, and voices can now be copied with AI from a short clip. A familiar name or even a familiar voice isn't proof.
Hang up and call back
The fix is simple and always works: end the call, then call back on a number you already know. Real IT and real banks won't mind.
Red flags
- An unexpected call about a problem you didn't know you had.
- Asking you to install software, share your screen, or read out a code.
- Pressure to stay on the line or act right now.
What to do
Hang up and call back on a number you already know: your IT provider's usual line or the number on your bank card.
This page is taken from the 3 minute NetMinder lesson staff see straight after clicking a practice email about this scam.