In Present Company
(We get a lot of scam calls in my office about our photo copier. Usually the scammers give up quickly if you ask the right question or two, but not this one.)
Me: “Good afternoon, [Company]. This is [My Name] speaking.”
Scammer: “Hi, this is Customer Service calling on your photo copier. We’re updating our records and I just need someone to check the numbers on the side of the copier for me.”
Me: “Okay, and what do you need the information for?”
Scammer: “I’m updating our records.”
Me: “I know, but what do you need it for?” *this is usually the point that most of them hang up*
Scammer: “I’m updating. Our records.”
Me: “I know, but— Okay. Who needs this information?”
Scammer: “We do. We’re the call center for your copier.”
Me: “What company are you from?”
Scammer: “What company are you from?”
Me: *thinking he misheard me and is repeating what I asked for clarification* “What company are you from, sir?”
Scammer: “What company are you from?”
Me: “What— Did you just ask what company I’m from?”
Scammer: “Yes, I did.”
Me: “Are you messing with me now?”
Scammer: “Yes, I am.”
Me: *laughs* “Okay, have a nice day. Bye bye.”
Scammer: “You, too.”