Phone scams are becoming more sophisticated every year, and fraud experts warn that a simple mistake during a call can be enough to put you in danger. One of the most common traps involves just three words that many people say without thinking: “Yes, that’s me.”
Scammers have learned that getting a clear verbal confirmation from a victim can be used against them. In some cases, they record your voice and attempt to use that audio to authorize transactions, verify identities, or manipulate automated systems that rely on voice recognition.
How the scam works
Typically, the call begins innocently. A stranger may ask:
“Is this [your name]?”
If you reply, “Yes, that’s me,” they now have a clean recording of your voice agreeing to something — even though you haven’t agreed to anything specific. That clip can later be edited or misused as supposed proof that you authorized a payment, service, or contract.
In other variations, scammers use your “yes” to keep you engaged, making you more likely to trust them as the conversation continues.
What you should say instead
Experts recommend avoiding direct confirmations altogether when you don’t know who is calling. Instead, you can respond with:
- “Who is calling?”
- “May I ask what this is regarding?”
- “I don’t give personal information over the phone.”
If the caller is legitimate, they should be able to explain who they are without you confirming your identity first.
Other warning signs to watch for
Be cautious if the caller:
- Refuses to identify themselves clearly
- Pressures you to act quickly
- Asks for personal information like your address, bank details, or Social Security number
- Claims there is an urgent problem that only you can fix
These are classic tactics used to create panic and lower your guard.
How to protect yourself
- Let unknown numbers go to voicemail
- Call back using an official number if they claim to be from a company or agency
- Never share sensitive information unless you initiated the call
- Report suspicious calls to your phone provider or local authorities
Bottom line
A simple phrase like “Yes, that’s me” may seem harmless, but in the hands of a scammer, it can become a tool for fraud. Staying cautious, asking questions, and refusing to confirm your identity to strangers can help keep your voice — and your money — safe.
Being aware is your strongest protection against phone scams.
