Getting Silent Scam Calls? Don’t Say “Hello” First!

You get a phone call from a legit phone number – unlike the ones that say unknown. So… You answer your phone.

“Hello?”

Silence.

A few seconds pass, and the call ends. No response, no background noise, nothing at all.

While it may seem harmless or simply like a bad connection, these silent scam calls could be part of a growing tactic used by scammers and cybercriminals!

What Are Silent Scam Calls?

Silent scam calls are calls where the caller remains quiet or disconnects after you answer.

Why Scammers Call but Say Nothing?

Reason 1: Confirm that your phone number is active

Reason 2: Record short voice samples

Reason 3: Identify potential targets for future scams

Reason 4: Test how people respond to unknown calls

So… What Will Scammers Do with Your Voice?

With advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and voice technology, scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated and dangerous.

A short voice recording, even just a few words like “hello” or “yes”, could potentially be enough for scammers to misuse your identity or manipulate others.

Your voice may be used for:

Voice cloning or impersonation scams
Bypassing voice authentication systems
Creating fake audio recordings or messages
Tricking your family members, friends or colleagues
Pretending to be you to request money or sensitive information

As AI tools become more advanced and accessible, scammers no longer need lengthy recordings to imitate someone’s voice convincingly. What seems like a harmless phone call today could potentially be used in a more serious scam later on.

How To Protect Yourself from Silent Scam Calls?

1. Avoid speaking first

If you answer a call from an unknown number, wait for the caller to speak first instead of immediately saying “hello” or “yes”.

2. Hang up if the call feels suspicious

If the caller remains silent for more than a few seconds, or if an automated/robotic voice immediately asks for personal or banking information, disconnect the call immediately.

3. Block and report suspicious numbers

Use your phone’s spam protection features and report scam calls whenever possible.

Quick Helpline Links

Bank Negara Malaysia – https://www.bnm.gov.my/financial-fraud-alerts

For more information on financial scams, fraud alerts, and what to do if you are a victim, visit the Bank Negara Malaysia website.

National Anti-Financial Crime Centre (NFCC) – https://nfcc.jpm.gov.my

In line with the government’s effort to combat financial crimes, the NFCC was launched under the National Anti-Corruption Plan 2019-2023. If you have been scammed, you can report the incident by directly dialing 997.