Bogus Mobile Text Message

[aelmpvw]

I've recently been in touch with talktalk regarding problems with my tv recorder, which was resolved. I then received a text on my mobile saying an engineer would be arriving on Monday. I phoned the number to cancel the engineer as I didn't require a visit. I subsequently discovered that I wasn't talking to a talktalk representative. The question is, as I didn't supply any sensitive information, what was the purpose of the scam?

[waterboatman]

To get your details.

[aelmpvw]

The only details they asked for was my name. They could get that from the phone book.

[johnk]

To get you to download a programme on your devices which gives them control over it. I still get calls from these scammers even though I left TT years ago.

[aelmpvw]

Was it just a coincidence that they knew I'd been having problems with my talktalk equipment?

[aelmpvw]

They didn't ask me to download anything. They just said that they had no record of an engineer being booked.

[waterboatman]

They have the means to see who's on what.

[aelmpvw]

I'm still puzzled as to what was in it for them?

[Hopkirk]

Doesn't sound like a scam to me, just incompetence at that department.

[aelmpvw]

I double checked the number supplied on my mobile with talktalk and they said it wasn't one of their numbers?

[Hopkirk]

Oh, I see. I didn't realise that.

[Hopkirk]

Google the number and see what comes up.

[aelmpvw]

I have done, several reports said it was a scam to get your details but they didn't ask for any?

[harveyj282]

OK, let me answer your question.
Not proud of it but I have worked in scam calling center for a while... obviously not knowing we were scamming people. It was a really elaborate one.

First thing. How did they got your number. Now, the first time you called the call center, which was certainly in India or a similar country recorded you number. This call center is legit company assisted. They are not allowed to record your number but they did.

Now, this legit call center gathered a thousand or so number and then sold them to a not very legit call center that scams people.

This call center has definitely a scene up their sleeves for people who were having difficulty with visits.

One you said you don't need a visit they had nothing to do with you. Their scheme probably targets people who haven't had their visit or are having difficulties still.

[aelmpvw]

thanks harvey, well, on this occasion all it did was accrue a cost for them and no cost for their potential victim :-)