The Tech Grandkid · thetechgrandkid.com/guides/caller-id-spoofing/
A call shows your bank's real number. Here's how to tell if it's really them.
Scammers can make your phone show a number you trust. The fix is simple: hang up and call back a number you already know.
This page is for you if
- Your bank called from its real number and says there's a problem
- A call shows the police, the IRS or another government office
- A call shows a family member's name but the voice or story seems off
Why this happens
The FCC says scammers can fake the number and name on your caller ID. They pick numbers you already know and trust, or local numbers, so you'll answer.
Do these steps
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Step 1: Don't trust the screen
A real number on caller ID doesn't prove who is calling.
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Step 2: Don't give anything out
Don't share account numbers, your Social Security number, passwords or codes. Don't answer yes-or-no questions.
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Step 3: Hang up
If the caller says there's a problem, end the call. Don't press any buttons, even to stop the calls.
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Step 4: Call back the real number
Call the number on your account statement, on the back of your card, or on the official website. For family, call the number you have saved.
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Step 5: Ask about blocking
Your phone company may have free or paid call-blocking tools. Your phone has some too: iPhone steps, Android steps.
Already gave information or money?
- Call your bank right away using the number on your card.
- Report it to the FCC at consumercomplaints.fcc.gov and the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. If you gave your Social Security or account number, go to IdentityTheft.gov.
Good to know
- The FCC says a real company or agency will usually send a letter before it calls, especially if it wants a payment.
- Set a password on your voicemail. The FCC says some voicemail lets anyone in who calls from your number, and that number can be faked.
Check it with the source
We wrote these steps from these official pages. If your screen looks different, the official page is always right.
- FCC: Caller ID Spoofing https://www.fcc.gov/spoofing
- FTC: How to recognize and avoid phishing scams https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-recognize-and-avoid-phishing-scams
Still stuck?
Tell Buster what you see, in your own words.
Or email us at [email protected]. Never send us a password or a code.