'Yes' scam calls targeting Rowan employees

Several employees have recently reported receiving calls on their work phones that appear to come from a Rowan University number. During these calls, the caller poses a question that would prompt a “Yes” response, such as “Can you hear me?” or “Am I speaking to John Doe?” When the recipient of the call answers “Yes,” the caller hangs up.

These calls are alleged to be part of a scam the federal government has issued warnings about that records the voice of the person who answers the call. The scammers, according to officials, may later attempt to use that recording for fraudulent purposes; for example, by using your “yes” response as proof that you agreed to a purchase or credit card charge.

Our recommendation is that if you receive this type of call, immediately hang up. If you suspect that you may already have fallen victim to this scam and responded “Yes” to any of their questions, keep an eye out for any suspicious charges on your accounts. While there are not widespread reports of scammers using these recordings to make fraudulent charges with the few companies that allow voice verification, it’s better to be extra vigilant.

In general, the Federal Communications Commission offers the following tips to prevent unwanted calls and scams:

  • Don’t answer calls from unknown numbers. Let them go to voicemail. 
  • Don't return any calls from numbers you don't recognize.
  • If you answer and the caller (often a recording) asks you to hit a button to stop receiving calls, just hang up. Scammers often use these tricks to identify, and then target, live respondents. 
  • If you receive a scam call, write down the number and file a complaint with the FCC so they can help identify and take appropriate action to help consumers targeted by illegal callers. 
  • Ask your personal phone service provider if it offers a robocall blocking service. If not, encourage your provider to offer one. You can also visit the FCC’s website for information and resources on available robocall blocking tools to help reduce unwanted calls. 
  • Consider registering all of your telephone numbers in the National Do Not Call Registry.

If you receive one of these calls or have any questions, please contact the Technology Support Center at 856-256-4400, or submit a ticket at support.rowan.edu.