More police in the Hudson Valley are warning about a dangerous and growing phone scam. A scam that many might not know they fell for.

If you receive a phone call from an unfamiliar voice asking “can you hear me,” or any other question that would provoke a “yes” response, hang up the telephone, police advise.

If you don’t hang up, you’re a potential victim in the latest phone scam called the “Yes” or “Can you hear me” scam.

According to New York State Police, the scammer’s goal is to have victim say the word “yes” during the phone conversation. The yes response is recorded and used to place unauthorized charges against the victim’s utility bills or credit card accounts.

Last week, the Ulster County District Attorney’s Division of Consumer Affairs warned residents that the scammer calls you back and demands payment by using the “yes” recording as proof you agreed to pay for goods or services.

Authorities believe a number of residents have fallen for this scam, many without even knowing. If you think you may have been scammed, check your utility bills and credit card statements for any unauthorized charges.

If you noticed unauthorized credit card charges, contact the Federal Trade Commission to dispute the charges or contact State Police to make a report.

In the future, if you think you answered a call from a telephone scammer, hang up the phone. Do not say yes to the caller, officials urge. Screening calls from unknown numbers is also advised.

Have you been the victim of this scam? Let us know on our Facebook page or in the comment section below.

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