Public Advisory: Scam Loan Calls Targeting Consumers
Franklin, TN— A surge in fraudulent phone calls has been reported by individuals receiving persistent messages from a person claiming to be “Jessica” from a “loan processing team.” These calls are designed to deceive recipients into providing personal information under the guise of completing a loan application.
The scam involves pre-recorded messages where the caller identifies as “Jessica” and requests recipients to verify income and other details to finalize a supposed loan application. Many consumers report receiving these calls multiple times per week from varying phone numbers, though the callback number consistently provided is 877-867-5139.
Common elements of the scam include:
- A voicemail claiming the need to verify details related to an alleged loan application.
- Mentions of an “application ID” to expedite the process (e.g., “A as in Apple, H as in Hotel, Z as in Zebra 34578”).
- Instructions to call back before 5 PM Pacific Time.
Consumers have stated that they never applied for any loans and that attempts to request the end of these calls have proven ineffective.
What You Should Do:
- Do Not Return the Call: If you receive a voicemail from “Jessica” or anyone claiming to finalize a loan application you never initiated, do not call back.
- Block the Number: Although scammers often use different numbers to call, blocking reported numbers may reduce call frequency.
- Report the Calls: File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at www.ftc.gov/complaint & BBB at BBB.org/Scamtracker
- Protect Your Information: Never provide personal or financial information over the phone unless you are certain of the caller’s legitimacy.
“These types of scams are unfortunately becoming more sophisticated and relentless. It is essential for consumers to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity,” said Robyn Householder, CEO & President of BBB of Middle TN & Southern KY. “By sharing information and reporting scams, we can help protect others from falling victim.”
Always report suspected fraud to the BBB by filing a complaint, visiting BBB.org/Scamtracker, and contacting the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at reportfraud.ftc.gov or call 877-FTC-Help.
Better Business Bureau of Middle Tennessee and Southern Kentucky
25 Century Blvd Suite 101
Nashville, TN 37214
https://www.bbb.org/local-bbb/
