Phone scams are a growing concern, especially for older adults who may be more susceptible to fraudulent calls. If your parent uses an AT&T iPhone, there are several steps you can take to protect them from these scams.
What Are Common Phone Scams Targeting iPhone Users?
Phone scams often involve fraudulent calls or messages designed to steal personal information or money. Common tactics include:
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Caller ID Spoofing: Scammers manipulate caller ID information to appear as legitimate entities, such as government agencies or trusted companies. (att.com)
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SMiShing: Phishing attempts via text messages that lead to fake websites requesting personal information. (about.att.com)
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Robocalls: Automated calls delivering pre-recorded messages, often promoting fraudulent services or products. (about.att.com)
How Can AT&T ActiveArmor Help Protect Against Scams?
AT&T offers the ActiveArmor mobile security app, which provides several features to help protect against phone scams:
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Fraud & Spam Call Blocking: Automatically blocks calls from known scammers and allows you to manage nuisance calls. (att.com)
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Spam Text Protection: Filters out spam and malicious text messages, reducing the risk of SMiShing attacks. (att.com)
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Device Security Alerts: Notifies you of system updates and missing passcodes, enhancing overall device security. (att.com)
Setting Up ActiveArmor on an iPhone
To install and configure ActiveArmor on your parent's iPhone:
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Download the App: Visit the App Store and search for "AT&T ActiveArmor."
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Install and Open: Tap "Get" to install, then open the app.
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Sign In: Enter your AT&T wireless number and follow the on-screen instructions to complete setup.
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Configure Settings: Customize call blocking, text filtering, and device security alerts according to your preferences.
For detailed guidance, refer to AT&T's support page on using the ActiveArmor mobile security app. (att.com)
What Are Effective Strategies to Recognize and Avoid Scams?
Educating your parent about common scam tactics can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim:
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Be Skeptical of Unsolicited Calls and Messages: Advise your parent to question unsolicited communications requesting personal information or immediate action.
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Verify Caller Identity: Encourage them to hang up and call back using official contact information from the company's website or official documents.
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Avoid Clicking on Suspicious Links: Instruct them not to click on links in unsolicited emails or text messages, as these may lead to phishing sites.
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Use Strong, Unique Passwords: Ensure they use complex passwords for their accounts and change them regularly.
How Can You Report Suspected Scams to AT&T?
If your parent encounters a suspicious call or message:
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Report to AT&T: Forward the suspicious text message to 7726 (SPAM). Calls can be reported by contacting AT&T customer support. (lsreg.att.com)
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Report to Authorities: Encourage them to report the incident to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) through their website.
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Stay Informed: Regularly check AT&T's Cyber Aware page for updates on the latest scams and protective measures. (about.att.com)
What Are Additional Resources to Enhance Phone Scam Protection?
Beyond ActiveArmor, consider these resources:
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National Do Not Call Registry: Registering your parent's number can reduce unsolicited calls.
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Caller ID Features: Some iPhones display "Spam Risk" or "Fraud Risk" on incoming calls, helping identify potential scams. (appletoolbox.com)
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Regular Device Updates: Ensure the iPhone's operating system is up to date to benefit from the latest security patches.
By implementing these strategies and utilizing available tools, you can significantly enhance your parent's protection against phone scams on their AT&T iPhone.
Highlights:
- Use the AT&T ActiveArmor Mobile Security app - AT&T Wireless Customer Support, Published on Monday, April 21
- How to Block Calls with AT&T Call Protect | TechBuzz by AT&T, Published on Sunday, June 18
