McCracken County Sheriff’s Office warns of call-forwarding scam targeting phone users

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

MCCRACKEN COUNTY, Ky., (KBSI) — The McCracken County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about a phone scam that can allow criminals to gain access to bank accounts, social media profiles and other online accounts.

According to the sheriff’s office, scammers are contacting victims while posing as representatives of banks, phone providers or other trusted organizations. The callers create a sense of urgency by claiming there is a problem with an account, suspicious activity or a delivery issue.

Victims are then instructed to dial a code that activates call forwarding on their mobile phone. Once enabled, incoming calls and text messages are redirected to the scammer’s device.

Authorities say the scheme allows criminals to intercept one-time passwords and two-factor authentication codes used to secure online accounts. The information can then be used to reset passwords and gain access to financial, social media and other personal accounts.

The sheriff’s office advises residents not to follow instructions from unsolicited callers and never activate call forwarding at the request of someone claiming to represent a bank, phone company or other organization.

Anyone who believes they may have fallen victim to the scam should contact their wireless provider and financial institutions immediately.