Poland and UAE Warn of Phone Scam Tactics Using Silent Calls and Vishing

Authorities in Poland and the United Arab Emirates have issued warnings about phone‑based fraud schemes that rely on automated calls. In Poland, police in the Tatra County reported a vishing operation in which callers pose as bank representatives and claim a high‑value loan has been taken out in the victim’s name, then demand personal data to “block” the loan. The police advise that no legitimate institution will ask for passwords, payment details or installation of software over the phone, and urge anyone targeted to hang up, avoid sharing information and report the incident.

In the UAE, experts highlighted a rise in "silent calls" generated by autodialer software that pings phone numbers to confirm they are active. Once a number answers, even briefly, it becomes a valuable asset for criminals who use it for phishing calls, fraudulent SMS messages and other scams. They recommend that callers who hear only silence should end the call immediately, not speak, and refrain from calling back.

Both warnings emphasize caution, the importance of not disclosing personal data, and reporting suspicious activity to the appropriate authorities.