Phone Scams Use “Number Spoofing”

20.12.23

Threat Intelligence Alerts

Home News Phone Scams Use “Number Spoofing”

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.

What is Number Spoofing?

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.

Why Do Scammers Use This Tactic?

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.

How Does Number Spoofing Work?

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

Swapping digits in a number to closely resemble a bank’s actual contacts.
Changing just the last digit and claiming it varies by department.
Spoofing numbers on Do Not Call lists to seem authentic.

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.

How to Protect Yourself

Here’s guidance to avoid becoming a victim:

Be cautious with all unsolicited calls, even from familiar-looking numbers. Banks don’t request sensitive information over the phone.
Never share financial data or account access passwords with unverified callers.
End suspicious calls immediately. Independently look up and call your bank directly through trusted channels.
Report questionable calls to regulators and your bank’s fraud security team.
Enable available call screening features and apps to detect and block scam calls.
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.

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.

20.12.23

Threat Intelligence Alerts