Phone Number Spoofing: When the Caller ID Can’t Be Trusted

It’s easy to assume a call is legitimate when the number looks familiar or local. But scammers are increasingly using phone number spoofing to disguise who they really are, making it harder than ever to tell a real call from a fraudulent one. “Phone number spoofing causes the Caller ID to display a phone number or other information to make it look like the calls are from a different person or business.”¹ Because the number appears legitimate, people are more likely to answer the call and engage with the caller, giving scammers an opportunity to carry out their scheme. “Any phone number can be spoofed, so it’s very important to be aware of all the scams out there. When our number was used by someone claiming to be one of our loan officers, we gathered some information from the customers who were contacted and were able to protect their account information. We put a warning out on social media and our website, warning others to be cautious with phone calls they receive. Whenever anyone is questioning if a call they received is legitimate, we always encourage people to call in or stop at their local branch.” – Rue Hauenstein, Customer Care Representative, Citizens National Bank.

How the Scam Typically Works

Once a scammer has your attention, they often try to create a sense of urgency or fear. “One common strategy is impersonating reputable institutions like banks or government agencies, instilling fear and urgency in the recipients of these calls, which boosts compliance with their demands. For instance, a surge in IRS-related scam calls was documented in 2024 with a staggering 32% increase; many of these calls involved spoofed numbers that made them appear authentic.”²

Warning Signs to Watch For

Even if the number looks legitimate, the caller’s behavior can reveal the scam. Be cautious of calls that feel rushed, demand immediate action, or ask for sensitive information. Scammers will often ask for information like Social Security Numbers, passwords, or account numbers. They may even ask for unusual forms of payment crypto or gift cards.³ Legitimate organizations, especially financial institutions, will not pressure you to act on the spot or request confidential details over the phone. If something feels off, it’s worth pausing and taking a closer look.

How to Protect Yourself

The most effective way to protect yourself is to avoid trusting caller ID alone. If you receive an unexpected or suspicious call, hang up and contact the organization directly using a verified phone number from an official website or your account statement. It’s also a good habit to let unknown calls go to voicemail. Scammers often won’t leave a message, and if they do, it may contain clues that something isn’t right. Above all, never share sensitive personal or financial information over the phone unless you initiated the call and are certain of who you’re speaking with.

¹ https://usa.kaspersky.com/resource-center/preemptive-safety/phone-number-spoofing

² https://dmarcreport.com/blog/what-is-phone-number-spoofing-understanding-techniques-and-risks/ 

³https://socialcatfish.com/scamfish/phone-spoofing/