Caller ID Spoofing is sweeping across the nation and startled consumers are seeing their own phone numbers displayed on their Caller ID screens. Here’s what you need to know about this numbers game.

Specialized software allows scammers to program their phones with telephone numbers that may look familiar in particular areas.  For example, local business  numbers and your neighbor’s name may appear on the screen in a ruse to get you to answer your phone. Offers to lower interest rates, apply for credit, or to verify  account information are all tactics to try to get you to reveal personal information. The numbers on the Caller ID screen are actually pilfered  from phone books and public records and are used as false identifiers for con artists making the calls.

The Truth in Caller ID Act of 2009 was signed into law in December 2010 and prohibits the transmission of misleading or inaccurate Caller ID information with the intent to commit fraud or cause harm and includes strict penalties for violators.  If you are receiving suspicious calls or messages, don’t call back or press the buttons they request for a response. It lets the callers know they have reached a legitimate number and can pave the way for more calls.

Caller ID is not scam proof and can be manipulated so don’t use it as a  safety tool. Any requests for personal account information should raise red flags unless you have initiated the call and are certain of why the person is asking and remember that Robocalls are computer generated and bypass the Do Not Call Registry because the computers don’t check the list prior to dialing.

If you would like more information on Caller ID Spoofing or need to file a complaint please call the FCC at 1-888-225-5322 or visit their website at www.fcc.gov.  Let scammers know you’ve got their number!