Here’s why you shouldn’t trust phone numbers listed on Google and Google Maps

Recently, a Twitter user named Shmuli Evers made a troubling discovery after his Delta Airlines flight was cancelled, and then he tried calling the customer service number without success. So, he turned to the hotline number listed on Google Maps for the airline, only to find out that it was a scammer’s trap.

As per reports, when Evers called the number, the call got disconnected and the customer was called back from a French number with an unrelated name. The scammer posed as an airline representative and requested Evers’ name and a new flight confirmation number. The scammer then instructed him to send the confirmation number via SMS to another number and demanded payment for the new flight reservations.

Fortunately, Evers realized something was amiss and ended the call. However, the scammer persisted and bombarded him with texts, demanding a payment five times higher than the original ticket price to re-book the flight.

In addition to the Delta Airlines hotline number being replaced, Evers also noticed that the hotline number listed for American Airlines on Google Maps was incorrect. Fortunately, both numbers have been rectified now.

How to stay safe from such online scams

• Avoid sharing your passwords, PIN numbers, or bank account numbers.
• When transferring money, use trustworthy firms and never do it on behalf of others.
• Check the privacy and returns policy of websites.
• Print a copy of your order and any acknowledgements you receive.
• Be vigilant about your bank statement and verify online purchases.
• Keep your passwords safe and secure.