The Tech Grandkid · thetechgrandkid.com/guides/my-number-spoofed/
People say you called them, but you didn't. Your number may be spoofed.
It's upsetting when strangers say you called them. Usually a scammer borrowed your number for a few hours, and it passes.
This page is for you if
- Strangers call asking why you called them
- Someone says your number showed up on their caller ID
- A call comes in that shows your own number
Why this happens
The FCC says if people tell you your number showed up on their caller ID, it's likely your number has been spoofed. Scammers put it on their calls. Your phone wasn't hacked to do this.
Do these steps
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Step 1: Don't answer unknown numbers
Let calls from numbers you don't know go to voicemail.
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Step 2: If you do answer, explain
Tell the caller your number is being faked by someone else and that you didn't call them.
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Step 3: Update your voicemail greeting
You can record a short message saying your number is being spoofed and you didn't make those calls.
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Step 4: Set a voicemail password
The FCC says some voicemail lets in anyone who calls from your number. A password keeps a faked call out.
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Step 5: Wait it out
The FCC says scammers switch numbers often. They usually stop using yours within hours.
Good to know
- Hang up on any call that shows your own number. It isn't you.
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
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.