Guide · Phone scams
Caller ID spoofing: why the number on screen can lie
Spoofing is when a caller deliberately fakes the number shown on your caller ID. Scammers use it to look like your bank, a government office, a local number ("neighbour spoofing") or even your own number, so you pick up and trust them.
Golden rule
Caller ID is not proof of identity. If a call asks for money, codes or personal details, hang up and call the organisation back on a number you look up yourself.
Signs a call is spoofed
- The display shows your bank's real number, but the caller asks for codes or a transfer.
- A number with your own area code and prefix you don't recognise.
- A call that appears to come from your own number.
- Calling the number back reaches a real business that never called you.
If your number is being spoofed
1. Don't panic
Your phone isn't hacked; scammers are just displaying your number. It usually stops as they rotate numbers.
2. Tell callers the truth
Consider a voicemail message explaining your number is being spoofed.
3. Report it
In the US report to the FCC at fcc.gov/complaints and to reportfraud.ftc.gov.
4. Turn on carrier protection
Most carriers offer free scam-call labelling and blocking (STIR/SHAKEN verification).
FAQ
What is caller ID spoofing?
Caller ID spoofing is faking the number that appears on a recipient's phone. It's illegal in the US when used to defraud or cause harm, under the Truth in Caller ID Act.
Can a spoofed call come from my bank's real number?
Yes. Scammers can display any number. Seeing your bank's real number does not mean the bank is calling.
Why am I getting calls from my own number?
Scammers spoof your number to get you to answer out of curiosity. Don't engage; hang up and block if possible.
Does STIR/SHAKEN stop spoofing?
It helps carriers verify and label calls, but it doesn't catch every spoofed call, especially from overseas networks.
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