The FTC is warning today that scammers are using fake caller ID information to trick people into thinking that the FTC's Consumer Response Center is calling. The practice of faking a phone number, otherwise known as caller ID spoofing, isn't new, but it is the first time the FTC's Consumer Response Center phone number (877-382-4357) has been hit.
Scammers are constantly picking new numbers to spoof, selecting trustworthy agencies and companies so that people would be more likely to share sensitive information. For instance, recently, residents of areas hit by recent hurricanes have been receiving scam calls about flood insurance. And, for years, people have received fake calls purportedly coming from the Microsoft Support Center. But it's not just companies and government agencies you need to wary of. Scammers have also been known to spoof family members' names and numbers to trick people into sending money.
What to do if you think you're being spoofed
If you have any question about whether or not you're being spoofed, do not give out or confirm any personal or financial information, including account numbers, your mother's maiden name, passwords, Social Security numbers (even partial ones) or any other identifying information.
If you receive a call from someone who says they represent a company or government agency that's seeking personal information, hang up and call back using a number on a recent account statement or that's listed on the company or government agency website.
If you're being pressured for information, hang up.
Never wire money or send money using a reloadable card.
And, warns the FTC, if you have a voicemail account with your phone service, make sure you require a passcode even if you're calling from your own line. Hackers can spoof your home phone number and gain access to your voicemail if you don't set a passcode.
Finally, report calls from scammers to the FTC at https://www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov
[image credit: scammer calling concept via BigStockPhoto]
From Lwiid on October 24, 2017 :: 6:34 pm
I have NO relationship with these folks, but give TruCaller a try for ur Cell phone. If the number is in their database, your screen will flash red. If it’s not, it’s easy to add.
One of the best utility Apps I have—and it’s FREE!!
Reply
From WatchOut on October 24, 2017 :: 7:40 pm
I completely agree with LWIID- I use the TruCaller app on my cell phone to lock up every unknown caller, including ones that call my home phone.
Excellent app and extremely useful.
Reply