Scammer using your phone number? What caller ID spoofing means
Quick answer
If people say your number called them, it was almost certainly spoofed: a scammer faked your number on caller ID. Your phone wasn't hacked. Don't answer unknown calls, and report it at fcc.gov/complaints and reportfraud.ftc.gov.
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How it works
Spoofing is when a caller deliberately falsifies the caller ID information to disguise who they are. The FCC says you may not be able to tell right away that a call is spoofed.
Scammers pick a number, often one that matches yours in area code and first digits, and show it on the screens of people they call. Those people call back or complain to you. The FCC notes that scammers switch numbers frequently, so within hours they are likely no longer using yours.
Red flags
- People call or text you about calls you never made
- Missed calls from strangers returning a call
- A caller ID that matches your own number
- A call that seems to be from a neighbor but isn't
Example message
Hi, someone from this number called me about my car warranty. Did you call me? Call me back on [phone number].
What to do
- 1
Don't panic: your phone wasn't hacked
Spoofing fakes the display. It doesn't mean someone has access to your device.
- 2
Avoid unknown calls
The FCC suggests not answering unknown calls. If you do, say your number was spoofed.
- 3
Record a voicemail greeting
The FCC says you can record a greeting explaining your number is being spoofed.
- 4
Ask your carrier
Ask about call-blocking tools and set a voicemail password.
- 5
Report it
File a complaint with the FCC and choose the unwanted calls category, noting your number was spoofed.
Report it
Check if your details are exposed with Serus
Scammers find your number and address on data brokers and people-search sites. Serus removes them.
Why you got it
Scammers often choose numbers that match your area, and they get working numbers from lists and data brokers. Your number being listed on people-search sites makes it easier to find and misuse. Serus finds the data brokers and people-search sites that list you and removes you from them, and alerts you when your details show up in a breach, so fewer scammers can build a convincing message about you.
Frequently asked
Is spoofing illegal?
The FCC says the Truth in Caller ID Act prohibits spoofing with intent to defraud or cause harm, with penalties up to $10,000 per violation.
Should I change my number?
It's your call, but scammers switch numbers often, so the spoofing usually moves on by itself.
Can I stop it?
Not directly. Report it and ask your carrier about blocking tools.
Sources
Something wrong or out of date? Tell us and we'll re-check it.
