Aug 6, 2011
Others have noted that these calls usually start shortly after they update their resumes on major job boards (CareerBuilder and Monsters) and last for about two weeks. Referring back to my resume updates, the time lines do match.
Last night I sent an email to CareerBuilder and Monster security and received a response from CareerBuilder that they are familiar with this scam and the number is associated with a Payment Processing / Re-shipping Scam. They are able to fly under the Do Not Call restrictions because they do not sell anything (to the best of my knowledge)
This is especially disconcerting because, even though the percentage is low, there are people who will fall for the scam and provide a bank account number and/or SSN, which allows these scammers to steal your identity, and go on a spending spree using your personal information to set up a payment processing account.
This phone number is most likely a "work around" number that is not tied to a valid phone service provider. This number is set up to redirect to the assigned number, thus the reason for the "number not in service." Using a work around number, they cannot be traced, because the number is not tied to an active account. Find the provider though, and you can find who is using the number.
Call Block is not available to new Verizon subscribers (less than a year), so I have no options available to block these calls, other than change my phone provider. Verizon does have a for-fee Call Intercept feature, which is 2-tier voice mail system. The calls still go through, but I have to dial in to retrieve - ineffective for this purpose.
It is obvious these people are trying to capture personal information for personal profit with the intent to steal your identity, drain your bank account, and/or run up your credit card.
I would recommend you contact your phone provider and file a formal complaint and ask that they trace the number and file a report with FCC – Verizon will NOT do this. The next option is to notify your local police, and then your Congressional representative and senators. If enough complaints are logged in the right places, action will be taken. It won’t stop them, because they can set up another account and be back in business, but it will slow them down and make things inconvenient for them.
PLEASE remain vigilant and remember, in this era of technology, there is always someone out there trying to catch you off guard – and then steal your identity for their personal gain.