Caller ID Spoofing
July 1, 2024
Have you ever received a call that appears to come from someone you know, but then ends up being a scam? This is known as caller ID spoofing, and it happens when a caller deliberately masks the original number to hide their identity from the person receiving the call. If they can get you to remain on the call, they will use scam scripts to try to steal your money or personal information.
Follow the tips below to avoid caller ID spoofing.
- Do not answer calls from unknown numbers.
- If you do happen to accidentally answer, hang up and do not talk or press any buttons. You do not want to find yourself in a situation in which you answer “yes” or “no” to any of their questions, as spoofers have found ways to scam others with these responses.
- Do not provide personal information, including account numbers, Social Security numbers, maiden names, passwords, etc. when receiving a call from an unexpected number.
- If a caller claims they are from a company or government agency, hang up and call the number listed on their website. In most cases, companies and government organizations will send a written statement in the mail before attempting to contact you by phone.
- Set a password for your voicemail so scammers cannot spoof your phone number and gain access to your voicemail messages.
- Install a spam blocking app and list your number on the U.S. National Do Not Call Registry if you do not wish to receive telemarketing calls.