Scammers are changing the contact details for banks on Google Maps to defraud people
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LM Otero/AP
Scammers have found a new avenue for defrauding unsuspecting victims: Google Maps.
Scammers have found a new avenue for defrauding unsuspecting victims: Google Maps.
The Google-run online map service lets users submit changes and corrections to listings - so would-be fraudsters are changing the contact details listed for banks on the app. Then, when unsuspecting bank customers ring up what they think is their financial institution, the scammers extract their private banking details and use it to empty their accounts.It's a cautionary warning that the information on Google Maps isn't always as trustworthy as it might appear.
A Google spokesperson did not immediately respond to Business Insider's request for comment, but one previously told The Hindu: "Overall, allowing users to suggest edits provides comprehensive and up-to-date info, but we recognise there may be occasional inaccuracies or bad edits suggested by them. When this happens, we do our best to address the issue as quickly as possible."To stay safe, don't trust any phone number purporting to be your bank online unless it's on their website, or listed on the back of your debit or credit card.
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