Have you ever received a call from someone saying, “Hey, you just called me,” but you know for a fact you didn’t? If so, you’re likely dealing with the frustrating issue of number spoofing.
Number spoofing is when scammers hijack your phone number to mask their identity, making it appear as though you’re the one making the calls. Not only can this cause confusion and damage your reputation, but it also opens the door to potential security and privacy problems for both you and those getting the fraudulent calls.
The good news? You’re not helpless. There are ways to stop this, and while it might take a few days to fully resolve, you can take action today.
Let’s explore the best tips to prevent and put an end to number spoofing.
What Is Mobile Number Spoofing?
Number spoofing can be frustrating and harmful, but knowing how it works can help you stay protected from scammers misusing your phone number.
Number spoofing occurs when scammers alter the information sent to your caller ID to hide their true identity.
They use special software to make it seem like their call is coming from a different phone number—often one that appears familiar to you or others.
Common Signs of Number Spoofing
- You receive unexpected calls or texts from people insisting that you contacted them, even though you didn’t.
- You see your own phone number appear on your caller ID, even though you’re not making the call.
Why Would Someone Spoof My Number?
Scammers use number spoofing for several reasons, including:
- To avoid detection: They disguise their identity to prevent being tracked or held accountable.
- To increase their chances of getting through: Calls from familiar-looking numbers are more likely to be answered.
- To carry out larger scams: They use your number to target multiple people, causing harm to both you and others.
Dealing with Number Spoofing
If you find out your phone number has been spoofed, don’t panic. Here are some simple steps you can take right away to protect your security and reputation, plus tips on how to prevent it from happening again.
Immediate Steps to Take If Your Number Is Spoofed
- Increase Security Settings: Enable your carrier’s spam protection and caller ID features. These tools can help detect and block suspicious calls.
- Contact Your Carrier: Get in touch with your service provider right away. They have tools to help limit the damage, and they may even be able to trace where the spoofed calls are coming from.
- Change Passwords: Secure your voicemail and other account details by updating your passwords regularly.
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Set up 2FA for your account to add an extra layer of security whenever changes are made.
How to Prevent Future Spoofing
- Use Caller ID Apps: Install a trusted app that can help identify spoofed calls and warn you of potential scams.
- Stay Informed: Scammers are always changing their tactics. Keep yourself updated on the latest scams to avoid falling victim to spoofing.
- Protect Your Number: Be cautious about sharing your phone number. Only give it out to people or companies you trust to reduce the risk of misuse.
Reporting and Legal Options
- Report the Spoofing: In Australia, report the spoofing incident to the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA). They take spoofing seriously and can advise you on next steps.
- Seek Legal Help: If spoofing is causing serious problems, consider consulting a lawyer. Using someone’s number without permission is a form of identity fraud and may have legal consequences.
What Your Provider Can Do
Some service providers, like Telstra, offer solutions to stop spoofing. After experiencing spoofing myself, I contacted Telstra, who connected me with their technical team. They applied a filter that blocked my number from being spoofed, and it solved the issue.
To contact Telstra, you can call 13 22 00 or use their live chat service, and they’ll guide you through the process. Reach out to your provider to see if they offer similar solutions.
