844 Area Code Scam Calls - How to Protect Yourself

Common 844 Scams

• Impersonation: Callers claim to be from the IRS, FBI, Social Security Administration, or reputable banks/companies.
• Urgency & Threats: Scammers create a false sense of urgency, such as threats of immediate arrest, account suspension, or legal action to prompt quick action.
• Payment Requests: Demands for payment via unconventional methods like gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency.
• Phishing for Info: Attempts to "verify" personal details, such as social security numbers or banking info.
• "Zombie" Debt Collection: Collectors attempting to scare you into paying old debts.

How to Protect Yourself

• Verify Independently: If a company calls you, hang up and call them back using the official number from their official website.
• Don't Trust Caller ID: Caller IDs can be faked (spoofed) to display legitimate business names.
• Use Call Screening: Employ carrier-specific call-blocking apps or features like TrueCaller or Call Control.
• Report Scams: File complaints with the FTC (Federal Trade Commission) to help track these fraudulent activities.
• Register on the National Do Not Call List: Visit donotcall.gov to reduce telemarketing calls.

If you receive a suspicious call from an 844 number, it is safest to not answer and check if the number has been reported online.