Scammers spoofing their phone numbers and disguising themselves as someone else is a growing problem everyone is facing. Numbers can be stolen, or copied with slight differences to fool people into believing they are someone else, be that a family member, or a business. In this article, Virtual Landline delves deeper into caller ID spoofing, and what you need to do if you become a victim of this crime.
What is Caller ID Spoofing?
Caller ID Spoofing is when an individual intentionally copies another phone number to disguise their identity. Scammers will then use their spoofed numbers, normally copying local or business numbers, to steal money or personal information.
The numbers that the scammers spoof will be from people or businesses that individuals tend to trust, or have an existing relationship with. Places such as banks, or telephone companies are often spoofed by these scammers and with UK Finance stating that over £1.2 billion was lost to fraud in 2022, it would be wise to know the dangers around caller ID spoofing.
What is the law around Caller ID spoofing?
Scammers that use caller ID spoofing to engage in scam calls leave themselves open to hefty fines or even jail time. These fines or potential jail time will depend on the number of spoof calls, as well the severity of their illicit activities the scammer partakes in.
In November 2022, Ofcom laid down a marker for the future of caller ID spoofing by instructing telephone operators to crackdown on these spoofed numbers, also known as disguised phone numbers, by identifying and blocking promptly.
One rule Ofcom is currently pushing is the guidance of blocking calls from abroad that are using a UK caller ID. Many providers, such as TalkTalk have already seen great results installing this rule, with their users seeing a 65% reduction in complaints around phone scams since this rule was introduced.
What should I do if someone spoofs my number?
When a scammer spoofs your phone number, it can be really frustrating as well as scary. Receiving random messages and phone calls from strangers who have just been potentially scammed from your number can cause stress and more.
Alert your mobile provider
The first thing you should do is let your mobile or telecommunications provider know of the potential spoofing. They should be able to guide you through the whole process and alleviate a small part of your stress straight away.
Look to increase your security
This may not strictly be a security-related issue, but one tip you can take advantage of is diverting all calls that you receive from unknown numbers directly into your voicemail. This would mean that any calls you are receiving from strangers are sent into your phone's voicemail, whilst your friends and family are set in your contacts.
Blocking numbers that call you is also an option you can take if you are not inundated with calls.
Change your voicemail
If you are being inundated with calls from angry strangers who have possibly been scammed, one way you can potentially slow these calls is creating a new voicemail for your phone explaining that your phone number has been spoofed.
This will not stop the initial phone call, but may stop the same people constantly calling.
How to spot a spoofed caller ID
Spotting a spoofed call isn't the easiest thing to do, especially if the number is copying a business or person you know. Here are a few steps you can take to minimise your chances of being scammed.
Unknown numbers
One tip for avoiding spoof calls would be to completely ignore unknown numbers. Real businesses or people will typically leave you a voicemail regarding their call, and then you can decide whether to ring them back.
If a business has left a voicemail, it was advised for you to ring the business back through a number you can trust. These types of business numbers can be found on the businesses' website or a directory.
Protect your voicemail
Scammers can also hack into a phone's voicemail, so it is always advised that you keep your voicemail protected at all times. You can do this by setting a password or lock code on your voicemail.
Avoid hitting buttons
If you do answer the phone to an unknown number or a suspected spoofed number, do not hit any buttons on your phone. Hitting buttons on your dial pad can show the scammer that there is potentially an opportunity that you could be scammed. Pressing buttons can also just encourage the scammer to call you more frequently.
Do not stay on the line
If you believe you are talking to a spoof or scammer, just put the phone down. If a business is urgently calling you regarding a matter, just put the phone down and ring them on a phone line you know is legitimate.
In every scenario, the business representative will understand why you put the phone down and how important it is to be safe when talking about your information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are random numbers calling me saying I called them?
If random numbers are calling you saying you have called them, you maybe the victim of a Caller ID spoofing scam. This is where scammers and robocalls imitate a local phone number as a base for their scams or phishing operations. If you believe your phone number is being used in a spoofing scam, contact your telecom provider immediately.
Can I stop my number from being spoofed?
There are a few things you can do to try and avoid your number being spoofed. These things include alerting your mobile provider, increasing your phone security and changing your voicemail message to alert people of the scam.
Why is someone calling me with my number?
Receiving a phone call from your own number is a phone scam, where the scammer is using a Caller ID spoofer to copy your phone number. Do not answer these calls and report the issue to your mobile provider as soon as you can.
Virtual Landline offer a great collection of bespoke virtual phone numbers that you or your business can choose from. From local phone numbers to nationwide national numbers, contact one of our virtual phone specialists today.
Transitioning from a single business phone number to a fully integrated phone system was a significant step, and Virtual Landline made the process seamless. Their platform offers a robust set of features—call routing, voicemail-to-email, multi-user support, and more—that were clearly explained and easy to implement. The onboarding process was smooth, and within just a few days, we began seeing improved efficiency and communication across the team. For any business seeking a scalable, cloud-based phone solution, Virtual Landline is a solid choice.
Kieran handled our recent transition to the new Virtual Landline call management system. The migration process of our business VoIP was smooth, and the onboarding video call to explain the system’s features and benefits was clear and informative. For anyone considering Virtual Landline as their VOIP service provider, rest assured—you’re making a reliable choice.
Virtual Landline made the setup process refreshingly simple. Their range of plans offers excellent flexibility and affordability, making it easy to find the right fit for your needs. What really stands out is the scalability of the service—it's reassuring to know that as my business grows, Virtual Landline has the features and support in place to grow alongside it. A smart choice for any business looking for reliable VOIP solutions.
Great to speak to a UK based call centre on the phone, Dan couldn't have been more helpful and friendly! Everything was explained clearly, and the switch over to Virtual Landline from my old copper landline went really smoothly. It did exactly what it promised. Really happy with how easy it all was.