Hello all, So, I have a question regarding verification from a DC. So, I'm getting phone calls about 4-5 times a day from the same number. They never leave a message ever. So, finally I googled the phone number...nothing. Today, I got a phone call and answered it. The prompt said, thank you for calling diversified consultants. Googled them, and its a DC that "specializes" in the Telcom industry (mobile phones probably). Anyhow, on to my question. The guy on the phone said they were looking for me and identified me by name. I asked him what the phone call was regarding, and he said he couldn't tell me until I verified the last 4 digits of my SSN. So (just to play hardball) I told him that I wasn't giving him any part of my SSN until he told me why he was calling? Again, he wouldn't tell me, but instead said "you'll find out once you verify the last four digits of your SSN." I know I am not legally obligated to give them this information, however, is it legal for them to request the information in this matter? I understand they want to verify that I am who I say I am, however, if they wont tell me what they are calling in regards to, or which company they're calling on behalf of, how am I to know that the company is actually legit, and not just someone trying to steal some information on me? Thanks all.
Simple -- next time they call, pick up the phone, if they ask to speak with jwpj, say yes this is him (or her) if they ask for your SSN again, tell them you don't provide sensitive information to strangers, and that they can put whatever it is they need to say on the phone, in writing. Don't give them your address. If they're legit they'll have and/or can get from the OC all the information they need to contact you.
