Your phone rings, and it looks like a local number. You pick up, only to discover that it’s a robocall. This is called call spoofing. It happens when a caller falsifies the information sent to your caller ID to hide their identity. It’s often part of an attempt to try to get someone to share personal information that can be sold or used in fraudulent activity.
Although most types of spoofing are against U.S. law and Federal Communication Commission (FCC) rules, it has become increasingly common…as you can probably attest, based on your recent received calls. Spoofers often pretend to represent banks, insurance companies, and other official businesses.
How to Avoid Being Spoofed
It’s been said before, but it bears repeating (especially to elderly loved ones): do not share personal information in response to any call that is unexpected or seems suspicious. Personal information includes account numbers, maiden names, passwords, Social Security numbers, and other identifying details.
If you receive a call from someone who claims to work for a company or government agency and they are asking for personal details, hang up and call the number on your account statement, the company website, or the phone book to make sure that the request is genuine.
According to the FCC, “Under the Truth in Caller ID Act, FCC rules prohibit any person or entity from transmitting misleading or inaccurate caller ID information with the intent to defraud, cause harm, or wrongly obtain anything of value. If no harm is intended or caused, spoofing is not illegal.” In fact, spoofing could be permitted by courts for individuals who have valid reasons to hide their information, like victims of domestic abuse or law enforcement officials who are working on cases.
To report suspected spoofing, you can file a complaint with the FCC. You can learn more about spoofing and what to do about it here. You can block telemarketing calls by registering your number on the Do Not Call list.
If you are concerned that you or a loved one has been a victim of a scam, call Schuerman Law today. With more than 40 years of experience, John Schuerman is a compassionate advocate for your rights who will fight for justice and compensation for victims of fraud. Schedule a free consultation today by calling 1-800-274-0045.
