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PIN scams are soaring. Here’s how to protect yourself

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Personal Identification Number (PIN) scams are on the rise. For this reason, PureTalk encourages you to establish a PIN for your account if you haven’t done so yet. This process is quick and simple, adding an extra layer of protection against fraudsters trying to steal your personal information and money.

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About Account PINs and Passcodes

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What's an Account PIN and why do I need one?

An Account PIN secures your PureTalk account and helps verify your identity when contacting Customer Support. If you don’t have a PIN, you’ll need to create one to make any account changes or access information.

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How is an Account PIN different than a one-time passcode?

An Account PIN confirms your identity as the account owner and remains unchanged unless you decide to modify it. It is used as a verification method when calling in to Customer Support. A one-time passcode, on the other hand, is a temporary code used for single access when logging into your account.

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How is a password different from both an Account PIN and a one-time passcode?

A password allows you to access and manage your PureTalk account online. An Account PIN is used by Customer Support to verify your identity, while a one-time passcode is a temporary code for single access when logging into your account.

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What is Two-Factor Authentication?

This security method requires two forms of identification. After entering your login credentials, a one-time passcode will be sent to your phone via text. You must enter this passcode to access your online account.

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Protect yourself from PIN scams

Keeping your online accounts secure hinges on protecting your one-time passcode (sometimes referred to as a one-time PIN). If you receive a call asking you to confirm the PIN or passcode you just received via text or email, it’s likely a scam. Don’t share this information. We will never call you to ask for this code.

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Why are your codes so vital to safeguard?

Your account password, account PIN, and the one-time passcode or PIN you receive via text message are crucial for authorizing account access, making changes, or purchasing services in your name. Scammers would love to get their hands on this information in order to access your account and steal from you or the company. They’ll try almost anything to trick you into sharing it, so stay vigilant.

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Steps to better protect yourself against fraud

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Beware of Unsolicited Calls:

Companies like PureTalk won’t call you asking for a one-time passcode. If someone requests a passcode or PIN from a recent text or email, it’s probably a scam, even if they claim to represent the company.

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Resist Pressure Tactics:

Scammers create a sense of urgency to make you reveal your passcode or PIN. Hang up and contact the official company number on your bill or their website to verify the request.

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Keep Your PIN Confidential:

PureTalk will never call and ask for your Account PIN or one-time passcode. Always keep all your passcodes, passwords, and PINs private.

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Use Malware Protection:

Keep your anti-virus and malware software up-to-date to protect your personal and login information.

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Enable Multi-Factor Authentication:

Add extra security features like passcodes and authentication methods to your accounts. These layers help protect your accounts, but remember to use PINs carefully. Learn more about Multi-Factor Authentication.

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Proceed with Caution:

If something seems off or you suspect a scam, hang up. Avoid clicking links in suspicious emails or texts. If you suspect fraud on your PureTalk account, call 611 from your PureTalk phone. For other accounts, use the customer service number on your bill.

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One common example of a PIN fraud scam:

  1. You get a call saying there are fraudulent purchases on your account for equipment that is being shipped to you. (This caller is a scammer who does not work for the company, despite what the caller says.)
  2. The caller asks you to give him the one-time PIN/passcode to authorize the company to stop the purchase or keep your account open. (This caller actually just needs your one-time PIN to complete an order for those items.)
  3. The caller explains that the company will send someone to your home to retrieve the items or offers a shipping label to “return” the items to the company. (However, the address on that label is really one the scammer can access to retrieve the fraudulently purchased items.)

In this type of scam, called the Man in the Middle, the bad guy may already have your account username and password. If you give him the authorization code, he has what he needs to complete the transaction. The bad guy may also use this technique if he doesn’t have your password. If he has your username and phone number, he can simply click “forgot password.” He then calls you and uses the same trick to get you to share the new one-time passcode the company sent you via text or email. Once he has it, he has access to your account. Do not share your codes.

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If you think you might have been targeted for fraud on your PureTalk account, report it to our Customer Service team by dialing 611 from your PureTalk phone.