Phone Scams Use “Number Spoofing”

20.12.23

Threat Intelligence Alerts

You may have received questionable phone calls that appear to originate from numbers similar to your bank’s customer service line. This deceptive tactic is called “number spoofing” and criminals use it to scam consumers out of money and sensitive personal information.

Number spoofing makes a call look like it’s from a trusted source. Scammers manipulate the technology to display bank phone numbers, hoping you assume the call is legitimate and share personal financial details they can steal.  More recently scammers have been manipulating legitimate bank numbers with slight alterations to the real number to avoid detection, this is called Near-Number Spoofing.

By mimicking bank numbers, scammers aim to gain your trust so you reveal information like account numbers, PINs or online banking passwords. Their goal is to access and steal your money.

Scammers use technology to alter the phone number your Caller ID displays. Some of the common tactics include:

In addition, scammers use Near-Number Spoofing which manipulates real numbers by subtle alterations. This makes the number appear authentic and avoids detection by telecommunication filters.

Here’s guidance to avoid becoming a victim:

Remember, unexpected requests for your personal information should raise red flags. Stay alert and take proactive measures to protect your finances from these phone and number spoofing scams.