What Is Caller ID Spoofing and How to Protect Yourself

Caller ID spoofing is when a caller fakes the number shown on your screen. Scammers use it to look like a company you trust or a local number.

How to protect yourself

• Do not trust a call just because the number looks right.
• Hang up and call back on the official number.
• Never give codes, passwords or card details to an incoming caller.
• Use your phone's call screening and spam filters.

Texts can be spoofed too

Some fake texts appear in the same thread as real messages from a company. Judge what the message asks: real companies do not ask for codes or send you to unfamiliar links.

If your number is being spoofed

People may call you back angry about calls you never made. You cannot stop it directly; tell your carrier and record a voicemail explaining.

See private numbers and fake verification texts.

Rules in some countries

Several countries require carriers to check caller ID on calls, which cuts some spoofing. It does not stop all of it, especially calls from abroad, so stay careful.

FAQ

What is caller ID spoofing?

Faking the number shown on a call.

Can someone spoof my number?

Yes, without access to your phone.

How do I know if a call is spoofed?

You often cannot. Call back on an official number.

Related: private numbers · fake verification texts · block spam texts.