Dec 5, 2024 5:10:03 PM | Education How to Spot and Avoid Phone Spoofing Scams

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Can you really trust the Phone number calling you?

Phone spoofing scams are on the rise, and scammers are getting more convincing every day. These scams manipulate caller ID to look like a trusted number—your credit union, a government agency, or even… your mom! But don’t panic! With the right knowledge, you can protect yourself and avoid falling victim to these scams.

In this guide, we’ll break down:

  • What phone spoofing is
  • Common red flags of a scam
  • How to protect yourself
    Read on to stay one step ahead of scammers.

What Is Phone Spoofing?

Phone spoofing is when scammers disguise their phone number to “spoof” – or imitate- one you trust. Using specialized software, they can make their calls seem like they’re coming from familiar sources, such as your:

 

  • Credit union
  • Local police station
  • Utility company
  • Family member

 

The goal? To trick you into sharing sensitive information or sending money.

But no matter how convincing the caller sounds, you can outsmart them by recognizing the signs and taking the right precautions.

 

Phone Scam Red Flags:

❕❕ URGENCY
🤑 ASKS FOR PRIVATE INFORMATION OR PAYMENT
🎉 TOO GOOD (OR BAD) TO BE TRUE

Common Red Flags of a Phone Scam

Scammers use psychological tactics to manipulate you. Be on high alert if you notice any of these warning signs:

1. Urgency

If the caller says you must act immediately or face consequences, pause. Whether it’s a "limited-time offer" or a threat like "your account will be locked," urgency is a major red flag.

2. Requests for Personal Information or Money

Scammers may ask for:

  • Your Social Security Number
  • Bank account details
  • Credit card numbers
  • Passwords

Or they might pressure you to:

  • Make a wire transfer
  • Buy gift cards and share the codes

Legitimate organizations will never request sensitive information or payment over an unsolicited call.

3. Too Good (or Bad) to Be True

Examples include:

  • “Congratulations, you’ve won $10,000!”
  • “Your account has been hacked—send us money to secure it.”
  • “Your family member has been arrested and needs bail money immediately.”

These extreme scenarios are designed to trigger emotional responses that override logic.

 

How to Protect Yourself from Phone Scams

1. Don’t Trust Caller ID

Scammers can spoof phone numbers to appear as someone trustworthy. Caller ID is no longer a reliable source of truth.

2. Avoid Sharing Personal Information

Never give out sensitive details over the phone, especially in response to unexpected calls.

3. Hang Up and Call Back

If the call seems suspicious, hang up. Then, use an official number from a trusted source—such as your credit union’s website—to call back and verify the caller’s identity.

 

Examples of Phone Spoofing Scams

Here’s how these scams might look in real life:

  • "Bank Fraud Alert"
    A scammer pretends to be your bank, claiming suspicious activity on your account. They ask for your login credentials or credit card details to help them “secure” the account.
  • "Family Emergency"
    You get a call saying a loved one is in trouble and needs immediate financial help. Scammers play on your emotions to get you to act without thinking.
  • "Prize Giveaway"
    You’re told you’ve won a prize but need to pay a processing fee. No legitimate contest will ever require payment upfront.