COLUMBUS, OH (WOWO) Ohio Takes the Lead Against Robocalls as Scam Calls Surge
Ohioans are getting bombarded by scam calls like never before. Recent research shows one in three residents receives a robocall every day, and businesses report growing financial losses from phone fraud. Despite federal laws requiring anti-robocall software, fewer than half of the nation’s 9,000+ registered phone companies have implemented the technology according to WBNS 10-TV.
“Enforcement is lacking,” says Teresa Murray, director of the Ohio PIRG Education Fund. “Phone companies could do more, but they aren’t under pressure to act.”
Victims in Ohio report losing an average of nearly $3,960 per scam call, with text-based scams costing around $1,452. Imposter scams — where callers pose as officials or relatives — have surged 47% since last year.
Authorities and consumer groups advise caution: never share personal or financial info on unexpected calls, verify claims independently, and report suspicious activity. While federal authorities have shut down over 1,200 non-compliant phone carriers recently, Ohio experts emphasize that vigilance remains the best defense.
1 comment
Had a convincing call last Wednesday from someone claiming to be calling from my bank.
Said that i had two Amazon charges pending, from the online purchase of an iPhone, both times.
They “thankfully” put a stop on the account charges from San Diego, but they needed to close my card and reissue a new one to stop further transactions. Conveniently, they were able to reissue a new account over the phone! …
Scarily, they READ me the last six digits of my debit card, and wanted me to verify the FIRST six digits, plus the CCV number.
It was almost convincing, to which end, when i questioned anything about his intention, he said, “Can you not see, on your phone, that i am calling from your bank?”
When i told him it just had a phone number, he wanted me to Google the number, to verify.
I finally told him, “Cancel the account, and i will stop at my branch to issue a new account.”
I know that new accounts have to be made in person, as the bank requires you to be there, with your identification.
People need to be aware of this. Double-check their claims, to verify that something has happened. It may be true!
I had no pending charges on my Debit Card (though still awaiting my new one to arrive)
I had no pending charges on my Amazon account (even though i use an Amazon Business work account)
They are crafty and pushy.. and, oh yeah… also had very thick Indian accents.
Not to be rude to people with heavy accents, but i will always ask you to send me an e-Mail describing exactly what you need from myself, or my colleagues, to do. Scammers don’t always have that kind of time.
But you can learn a lot from their Username & Domain (sub).
I did get Medicare Part A & B calls about 4 times a day.
With the iOS 26 upgrade, i see about 3 calls come thru… but they neglect to leave messages.
I am still trying to train myself not to answer the phone when i rings!
😀