Let us start simple.
What are spoof calls? Spoof calls happen when someone fakes their caller ID to hide their real number. This is also called phone call number spoofing. So, why are spoof calls a serious issue today? Because they trick people.
Here, scammers can steal your money, your personal details, or even your identity. Many people lose thousands of dollars every year because of spoof calls.
That’s why today’s topic is all about:
- How to stop spoof calls
- How to block spoofing
- How to report spoof calls
- How to protect yourself and your family.
Let’s get into the details.
What is Call Spoofing?
Call spoofing happens when someone hides their real phone number and shows you a fake one on your screen. It is like when a stranger wears a mask to look like someone else. You might see a number that looks normal or even familiar, but it is not real. The person behind the call is pretending to be someone they are not.
How Spoofing Works
Spoofers use special apps or hacking tools to trick your phone. When they call, they send fake caller ID information along with the call. Your phone reads that fake information and shows it as the caller ID.
So even though it looks like a safe number, it could be coming from anywhere in the world. It is a clever trick, but once you know about it, you can be more careful.
Why do People Spoof Calls?
Most of the time, people spoof calls for bad reasons. Some want to scam you and steal your money. Some are trying to get your private information, like bank details or passwords, which is called phishing.
Others do it just to prank people for fun or to harass and bully someone. No matter the reason, spoof calls are always a big problem and need to be stopped.
Common Signs a Call is Spoofed
There are some easy signs that can help you spot a spoofed call.
If the number looks very close to your own, like the same area code or just one number different, be careful. If someone calls and says it is urgent, but the story sounds strange or stressful, do not trust it right away.
If the caller asks you for personal information like passwords, banking details, or social security numbers, it is a big red flag. Also, if you keep getting the same kind of call from many different numbers, it is a strong sign that the calls are fake, and you should not answer them.
Immediate Actions When You Get a Spoof Call
Here is what you should do:
- Do not answer unknown numbers.
- Do not give any personal information.
- Hang up immediately if you pick up.
- Do not call back the number.
- Look closely at the number. If it looks too familiar, be careful.
How to Stop Spoof Calls (Main Methods)
So, how do you stop phone spoofing? Here’s the answer:
Use Built-in Phone Features
One of the quickest ways to fight spoof calls is by using the features already on your phone. If a number keeps bothering you, you can block it manually. It takes just a few taps.
Also, both iPhones and Android phones have a setting called Silence Unknown Callers. If you turn it on, your phone will not ring for numbers that are not in your contacts. This is a simple and free way to block many spoof calls without needing anything extra.
Use Carrier Tools
Most big mobile companies also give you free tools to help stop spoof calls.
- Verizon offers an app called Call Filter.
- AT&T has Call Protect.
- T Mobile gives you Scam Shield.
These apps work directly with your mobile network. They can spot fake calls and block them even before your phone rings. If you have one of these companies, it is smart to download their app and use it.
It is one of the best ways to learn how to stop caller ID spoofing through your phone provider.
Install Third-party Apps
If you want even more protection, there are some amazing apps you can install. Truecaller, Hiya, RoboKiller, and Call Control are some of the best ones out there.
These apps watch for spam calls in real time. When a scammer tries to call, the app can block it automatically. They also share scam numbers with other users, so the more people use them, the smarter they get.
If you want an easy and strong way to block caller ID spoofing, getting one of these apps is a great idea.
Turn on STIR SHAKEN Verification
STIR SHAKEN might sound like a funny name, but it is very powerful. It is a system that checks if the caller ID you see is real or fake. When phone companies use STIR SHAKEN, it stops many fake calls before they even reach your phone.
This means only real calls get through to you. Right now, this technology mostly works in the United States and a few other developed countries. But if it is available to you, make sure it is turned on because it is one of the strongest ways to stop caller ID spoofing today.
Make sure you check out this essential guide—it covers all the important things you need to know about cybersecurity.
Advanced Ways to Stop Spoof Calls
If spoof calls are still a problem, try these:
- Turn on VoIP call blocking (for WhatsApp, Skype, etc.).
- Use a VoIP landline service with better spam filters.
- Get a second number for public use (like Google Voice).
- Use Google Assistant Call Screen to filter calls.
Report Spoof Calls
Where to report spoof calls:
| Country | Report To |
| United States | FCC (Federal Communications Commission) |
| United Kingdom | Ofcom |
| Canada | CRTC |
| Everywhere | Your phone carrier’s fraud portal |
Reporting is key when fighting against phone call number spoofing. It helps block scam numbers faster, protecting you and others, too.
Preventive Measures to Reduce Future Spoof Calls
Here are easy ways to prevent getting more spoof calls:
- Do not post your number on public websites.
- Be careful when signing up online. Fake sites collect phone numbers.
- Protect your email. Your number might be linked to it.
- Teach family and friends to protect numbers, too.
Also, if you want to learn about XSS Attacks, Zero-Day Exploits, SQL Injection, and Malware Attacks, here are some must-read blogs with simple guides!
How to Recognize and Avoid Spoof Call Scams
Common spoof scams you should know:
| Scam Type | Example |
| Bank alerts | “Your account is frozen!” |
| Tax scams | “You owe back taxes!” |
| Lottery scams | “You won a prize!” |
| Tech support scams | “Your computer has a virus!” |
Red Flags During Calls
When you get a call and the person on the other side is urgently asking for money or personal information, that is a big red flag. Real companies will never rush you like that.
Also, if the caller uses threatening words like saying you will get arrested or lose your account if you do not act fast, it is almost always a scam. Another warning sign is when the caller promises something that sounds too good to be true, like winning a lottery you never entered.
Always listen carefully. If something feels off, it probably is.
How to Check If a Call Is Real
If you get a suspicious call, the best thing to do is simple. Hang up right away. Do not argue and do not give any information. After you hang up, take a few minutes to search online for the real company’s phone number.
Look at their official website, not random links. Then, call the company directly using the number you found yourself. This way, you can confirm if the call was real or fake. It only takes a few minutes and can save you from getting scammed.
Legal Protection and Your Rights
There are laws that protect you:
- Truth in Caller ID Act in the United States
- Telecom rules in other countries
You have the right to:
- Block unwanted calls
- Report spoofers
- Sue for damages (in some cases).
Wrapping Up
So, that’s how to stop spoof calls. To stay safe from spoof calls, start by blocking any strange numbers. If a number seems suspicious, block it right away. Next, report spoof calls to your phone provider or the official government site to help catch scammers. Prevent future issues by being careful where you share your number and using call-blocking tools. Lastly, stay vigilant and proactive in protecting yourself. If you need extra help, consider contacting a managed cybersecurity service provider for more advanced protection. The more you know about phone call number spoofing, the better you can keep yourself and your loved ones safe.
FAQs
- Can spoof calls be completely stopped?
Spoof calls can’t be completely stopped 100% yet, but you can block most of them with the right tools and settings.
- Why do spoofers fake local numbers?
Spoofers fake local numbers to trick you into thinking the call is from someone you know, making it more likely you’ll answer.
- Will changing my number help?
Changing your number might help for a short time, but spoofers could still find your new number eventually.
- Is it safe to answer a spoof call if I do not say anything?
It’s best not to answer a spoof call at all, even if you don’t say anything, as it could still lead to trouble.
