It’s four o’clock in the afternoon when the telephone rings. Henrietta answers and a man identifies himself as Gregg Overstreet. "I’m with the Security and Fraud Division of MasterCard — my badge number is 12839."

Mr. Overstreet continues: "Your MasterCard has been flagged because of an unusual purchase pattern. I’m calling to verify that you are the correct holder of the card in question." He states her card number.

Henrietta’s head is spinning. "What is this all about?" she asks.

"Have you recently purchased an anti-telemarketing device for the amount of $497.99?" Mr. Overstreet asks, adding, "the company is based in New Mexico."

"No, I have not," says Henrietta.

Overstreet continues, "Then we’ll be issuing you a credit for that amount. This company is fraudulently charging MasterCard holders for amounts ranging from $250 to just under $500 — that’s the ceiling over which we flag accounts for possible fraudulent activity." Then Overstreet reads out Henrietta’s home address. "Is that correct?" he asks.

"Yes, it is," she responds.

"If you have any questions, you can reach me at the fraud division number, (800) MasterCard, then ask for the fraud division. To confirm that your card is in your possession, please turn your card over and read me the seven digit number on the back."

Henrietta reads the man the number.

"Thank you, ma’am," says Mr. Overstreet, "and if you have any questions about this case, do not hesitate to call. Thanks for your cooperation."

Okay, readers of Call The Cops! — are you a little bit suspicious of this call? I sure hope so, because Henrietta has just given Mr. Overstreet all the tools he needs to make purchases in her name. The security numbers on the back of your MasterCard or VISA are "for your eyes only." Mr. Overstreet is not an employee of MasterCard or VISA. He’s a thief!

I’ve just described a scam that’s now being worked across the country. Never, ever give out financial information on the telephone, especially to a stranger who telephones you.