As phone scams surge across the country, the FBI is sounding the alarm for Ohio residents to protect themselves by blocking a set of phone numbers linked to sophisticated fraud schemes. These warnings come amid a nationwide rise in scam calls, particularly those targeting personal and financial information through tactics like impersonating banks, delivery services, and even law enforcement.
The Top 5 Scam Numbers to Block
Based on recent scam call monitoring and alerts issued to residents in several states, the following five phone numbers have been identified as especially dangerous and are being used in various fraudulent schemes:
(865) 630-4266 – This Knoxville, TN number is used by scammers posing as Wells Fargo, claiming your debit card is locked due to fraud. Do not respond; instead, contact your bank directly using the official number on your card.
(469) 709-7630 – Originating from Dallas, TX, this number sends fake package delivery texts, trying to lure you into calling back or clicking malicious links.
(805) 637-7243 – Associated with a Publishers Clearing House scam, this California number claims you’ve won a sweepstakes or that there’s a credit card fraud alert. If you didn’t enter, it’s almost certainly a scam.
(858) 605-9622 – Scammers use this San Diego, CA number pretending to be from major banks like Chase or Wells Fargo, warning of compromised accounts.
(863) 532-7969 – This Florida number targets people with debit cards, falsely claiming their account has been frozen.
These numbers have been flagged after thousands of scam reports, and the FBI recommends blocking them immediately if you receive calls or texts from any of them.
How the Scams Work
Scammers are getting increasingly sophisticated, often using urgent language to frighten or pressure victims into providing sensitive information or making payments. Common tactics include:
Posing as bank representatives or federal agents, claiming your account is compromised or under investigation.
Sending fake delivery or prize notifications, prompting you to click links or call back to “verify” your details.
Threatening legal action or arrest unless you provide payment or personal data.
What Ohio Residents Should Do
Block the Numbers: Use your phone’s built-in features or a call-blocking app to prevent these numbers from reaching you.
Do Not Respond: If you receive a suspicious call or text, do not answer, call back, or click any links. Never share personal or financial information with unknown callers.
Verify Independently: If a caller claims to be from a bank, government agency, or delivery service, hang up and contact the organization directly using a verified phone number or website.
Report Suspicious Activity: File complaints with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) or the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) if you believe you’ve been targeted.
The Bigger Picture: Why the Warning Matters
Ohio has seen a significant increase in scam activity, with residents losing millions to various fraud schemes in recent years. The FBI and other agencies emphasize that these scams are not limited to Ohio—they are part of a broader trend affecting people nationwide, especially during busy seasons like the holidays when people may be distracted.
Final Tips to Stay Safe
Be skeptical of unsolicited calls or texts, especially those requesting urgent action.
Never send money, gift cards, or cryptocurrency to someone you haven’t met in person.
Enable call-blocking and spam-filtering features on your devices.
Educate family members, especially seniors, who are often targeted by scammers.
By staying vigilant and blocking these known scam numbers, Ohio residents can significantly reduce their risk of falling victim to phone fraud. If something feels off, trust your instincts—and always verify before you trust.
Source:-
[1] https://wpst.com/fbi-warns-to-block-scam-numbers/
[2] https://wnaw.com/fbi-is-warning-massachusetts-residents-to-block-these-phone-numbers-asap/
[3] https://www.ice.gov/news/releases/hsi-michigan-and-ohio-warn-scammers-impersonating-special-agents
[4] https://kw3.com/protect-against-evolving-scam-tactics/
[5] https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-block-unwanted-calls
[6] https://www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field-offices/cincinnati/news/press-releases/fbi-task-force-warns-of-scams-targeting-ohio-residents
[7] https://www.npr.org/2024/12/17/nx-s1-5223490/text-messaging-security-fbi-chinese-hackers-security-encryption
[8] https://wfin.com/fox-technology-news/fbi-warns-of-dangerous-new-smishing-scam-targeting-your-phone/
[9] https://www.threads.net/@barbaraford992/post/DDpaz2sNPh_
[10] https://www.fbi.gov/investigate/cyber/news