Phone spoofing is a deceptive tactic where scammers manipulate the information transmitted to your caller ID to make it appear as though the call is coming from a trusted source, such as a local business, government agency, or even a friend. This method is increasingly common and can be highly convincing, making it important to be aware of the risks and how to protect yourself.
How Spoofing Works
Spoofing involves altering the caller ID displayed on your phone to mimic a legitimate number. This can make it seem like you’re receiving a call from someone you know or a reputable organization, even though the call is actually coming from a scammer. The goal of spoofing is often to trick you into providing personal information, making a payment, or allowing access to sensitive accounts.
Recently, residents in St. Mary’s County have reported receiving phone calls from numbers that appear to be from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office. In these calls, the scammers pretend to be deputies, demanding money for so-called “warrants.” THIS IS A SCAM! The Sheriff’s Office will NEVER call and demand cash for a warrant or any legal issue.
If you receive such a call, hang up immediately and do not engage. The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office advises residents to verify the legitimacy of any suspicious calls by contacting the office directly at 301-475-8008.
Common Types of Spoofing Scams
Government Agency Scams: Scammers may impersonate government agencies like the IRS, Social Security Administration, or local law enforcement. They often claim there is an urgent issue, such as unpaid taxes or legal action, and demand immediate payment to resolve it. Remember, legitimate government agencies will never ask for payments over the phone.
Tech Support Scams: In this scam, you may receive a call claiming to be from a tech company, like Microsoft or Apple, warning you that your computer has been compromised. The scammer will then ask you to install software or provide remote access to fix the issue, which allows them to steal your personal information.
Bank or Financial Institution Scams: Scammers often pose as representatives from your bank or credit card company, claiming there’s been suspicious activity on your account. They may ask you to confirm your account details or passwords, which can lead to identity theft or financial loss.
Neighbor Spoofing: This tactic involves using a phone number with the same area code and prefix as your own, making it look like a local call. The familiarity of the number increases the likelihood that you’ll answer, only to be met with a scammer on the other end.
How to Avoid Being a Victim of Spoofing
Don’t Trust Caller ID: Caller ID is not a reliable indicator of who is calling. Scammers can easily alter the information to make it look like the call is from someone you trust. If a call seems suspicious, it’s best to hang up and verify the number through a trusted source before engaging further.
Never Send Money: A legitimate organization or individual will never ask for immediate payment over the phone, especially via unconventional methods like gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency. If a caller insists on urgent payment through these means, it’s a clear sign of a scam.
Local Example: The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office will never demand immediate payment over the phone. If someone asks for payment via gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency, it’s definitely a scam.
Beware of Urgency: Scammers often use high-pressure tactics to create a sense of urgency, urging you to act quickly without thinking. They may claim that there is a problem with your bank account, that you owe taxes, or that a loved one is in danger. Always take a moment to step back, breathe, and verify the information independently before taking any action.
Local Example: If you receive a call demanding immediate action or payment, such as for a supposed warrant, take a moment to verify by contacting the Sheriff’s Office directly at 301-475-8008.
Advanced Tips to Protect Yourself
Use Call Authentication Technologies: Some phone companies offer services that authenticate incoming calls. For example, the STIR/SHAKEN protocol is designed to reduce the effectiveness of spoofing by verifying the authenticity of the caller’s number. Check with your phone service provider to see if this is available.
Utilize Third-Party Apps: There are several apps available that can help identify and block spoofed calls. These apps use databases of known scam numbers and advanced algorithms to detect and block potential spoofing attempts.
Be Skeptical of Unsolicited Calls: If you receive an unexpected call, especially one asking for personal information or payment, be cautious. Scammers often create fake emergencies to pressure you into making quick decisions. Always verify the caller’s identity independently before providing any information.
Educate Yourself on Common Scams: Familiarize yourself with common spoofing tactics and scams. The more you know, the better equipped you’ll be to recognize suspicious calls. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regularly update their websites with information on current scams and tips for protection.
Check Your Phone Bill Regularly: Review your phone bill for any unusual charges, as scammers sometimes use spoofing to make expensive international calls or premium-rate calls that are billed to your account.
Register Your Number on the National Do Not Call Registry: While this won’t stop all scam calls, registering your number can reduce the number of legitimate telemarketing calls you receive, making it easier to identify potential spoofing attempts.
Reporting Spoofing and Scams
If you suspect you’ve been targeted by a spoofing scam, it’s important to report it:
Federal Trade Commission (FTC): You can file a complaint online at the FTC’s website or call their hotline.
Federal Communications Commission (FCC): The FCC also accepts complaints related to spoofing and robocalls.
Your Phone Service Provider: Some providers have their own reporting tools and can take additional steps to block scam calls.
Conclusion
Phone spoofing is a prevalent issue, but by staying vigilant and following these tips, you can protect yourself from becoming a victim. Remember, if something feels off, it’s better to err on the side of caution. Don’t let scammers take advantage of your trust—hang up, verify, and stay safe.
For more information on how to protect yourself from phone spoofing and other scams, visit trusted online resources like the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), or contact your phone service provider for additional protective measures.
