Scammers continue trying to trick consumers and businesses into providing information that leads to identity theft, drained bank accounts, and ruined credit reports. In fact, several Better Business Bureaus recently reported shysters are once again weaving BBB’s trusted name into their ploy pitches because they know the public sees BBB as a trusted entity. One woman who contacted BBB said she received a call from “Chris Gabriel” who identified himself as a representative of the Better Business Bureau. To sound official, he gave her an ID number and said the call was about her Citibank card. She indicated the caller knew everything about her card, and because she trusts BBB, she gave him some information. Soon after, she realized she had made a mistake. She immediately hung up, canceled her card and called BBB.
BBB urges consumers and businesses to never give out personally identifiable information until you have confirmed who the requesting party is and why the information is necessary. BBB would never ask for credit card machine processing information. The only time BBB would accept credit card information is upon receipt of an application for BBB accreditation status or other related accreditation services. Even then, the Better Business Bureau welcomes and encourages all businesses to verify with whom they are speaking by calling BBB’s main phone number (615.242.4222) or visiting their website at BBB.org/Nashville. (There is a “Contact Us” button on the very top of the webpage)
Warning from the BBB
