In Ventura County, a scammer pretending to be a deputy tricked people out of $1,500 using Bitcoin. This shows how scammers use fake area codes like 473 (Grenada) or 809 (Dominican Republic) to look real. The FBI says over $1 billion is lost each year to tech support scams. They warn that calls from unknown numbers are very risky.
Key Takeaways
- Scammers use international area codes (e.g., 232 for Sierra Leone or 868 for Trinidad and Tobago) to disguise fraudulent calls.
- Over $1 billion is stolen yearly via tech support scams, per FBI data.
- FCC advises victims to contact phone providers if charged after engaging with scams.
- Google’s Android Call Defense uses AI to flag suspicious calls, while Verizon’s Call Filter Plus blocks spoofed numbers.
- “Scam Likely” labels and unknown caller alerts signal high fraud risk, per carrier databases.
Understanding the Threat Landscape of Unwanted Calls
Scam phone numbers and unwanted calls are a big problem in America. The FTC says over 56 million U.S. adults got spam calls in 2023. This cost over $25 billion.
The FCC’s STIR/SHAKEN framework helped a bit. But scammers keep finding new ways to trick us. They use AI voices and fake numbers that look like they’re from the U.S.
Carriers are trying to help by flagging suspicious calls. But businesses still struggle to follow the rules.
The Rising Tide of Phone Scams in America
Scammers are getting smarter. They use tools like SpoofCard to make fake numbers look real. The FTC says 90% of unwanted calls come from these fake numbers.
AI voices make it even harder to tell who’s calling. Businesses using autodialers could face big fines if they break the rules.
Common Tactics Used by Phone Scammers
- Caller ID Spoofing: Displaying fake numbers to mimic trusted entities
- AI Voice Cloning: Synthetic voices mimicking family members or officials
- Pretexting: Creating false scenarios to extract personal data
The Psychology Behind Phone Scams: Why They Work
Scammers know how to play on our minds. A study from 2022 showed 72% of people answered calls from familiar area codes. This is why it’s important to not answer calls from unknown numbers.
They use fear and urgency to get what they want. The FTC says answering these calls can lead to more scams. They might even steal your voice for future fraud.
Numbers Not to Call: Known Scam Sources to Avoid
Scam phone numbers come from both in the U.S. and abroad. It’s important to be careful to protect your money. Source 2 says calls from certain international codes can cost extra. For example, +232 (Sierra Leone) and +91 (India) are often used by scammers.
In the U.S., area codes like 214 (Dallas, Texas) and 347 (New York City) are on 19 FTC lists. These are considered high-risk.
- International calls: Stay away from unknown numbers with codes like +265 (Malawi) or +375 (Belarus). They can lead to extra fees.
- Domestic scams: Area codes 712 (Iowa) and 646 (New York) are in 86% of fraud reports, FTC data shows.
Some scam numbers to watch out for include (202) 221-7923 for student loan scams and (347) 437-1689 for tax scams. Verizon and AT&T mark these as suspicious. The National Do Not Call Registry helps, but it’s not foolproof. Block unknown numbers and report scams to 888-382-1222.
Don’t pick up calls from 800 or 888 numbers, as 43% of robocalls use these. Scammers also fake local numbers to trick you. Keep an eye on calls from risky area codes and use call-blocking apps to stay safe.
Protecting Your Privacy with Modern Call-Blocking Solutions
Americans get 2.5 billion spam calls every month. It’s important to take action. Now, phones, apps, and carriers offer ways to block unwanted calls. Using these together can keep scams and telemarketers away.
Built-in Phone Features to Block Unwanted Calls
Today’s phones have tools to stop spam calls. iPhones have Settings > Phone > Call Blocking & Identification. Androids use Google Call Screen. These tools mark suspicious numbers and block scams.
Landline users can dial *77 to stop calls without ID. But, how well it works depends on the carrier and local databases.
Third-Party Apps That Filter Suspicious Numbers
Apps like TrueCaller and Robokiller use AI to block spam. Call Control’s CommunityIQ updates filters in real time. Hiya Pro verifies calls and lets you make your own blacklists.
These apps work better with carrier networks than phone features alone.
Carrier-Provided Protection Services
Big carriers have special tools. T-Mobile’s Scam Shield stops 90% of spam calls. Verizon’s Call Filter catches fraudsters. AT&T’s ActiveArmor labels nuisance calls.
Subscribers can block up to 100 numbers with AT&T’s *61 code. But, how well these services work depends on the carrier’s help with national databases.
Creating Your Personal Phone Number Blacklist
To make your own blacklist, you need to be careful. Start by reporting suspicious numbers to the FTC at 888-382-1222. Use *69 on some landlines to block recent callers.
Use a temporary number for unknown calls, as Source 3 suggests:
“Use a temporary phone number to protect your privacy when investigating unfamiliar calls.”
Use carrier tools like CPR Call Blocker with third-party apps for better protection. Keep your blacklist up to date by reporting new spam numbers through apps like TrueCaller’s community portal.
Taking Action: How to Report Harassing and Fraudulent Calls
Reporting fraudulent calls helps fight scams. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) says every report harassing calls helps spot trends. Start by writing down the caller’s number, what was said, and when it happened. This info helps track scams.
- FTC Complaint Assistant: File a protect yourself from phone scams report on the FTC’s website. Share the caller ID and how the scammer acted. The FTC uses these reports to warn the public.
- FCC Guidelines: You can also report on the FCC’s website or call 1-888-225-5322. Tell them about calls that break the law, like unwanted robocalls.
- Carrier Tools: Many carriers, like AT&T’s ActiveArmor and Verizon’s Call Filter, let you mark scams. These reports help update lists to block future calls.
“Legitimate organizations do not demand immediate payments or personal data over calls,” states the IRS in a 2023 advisory. The agency warns taxpayers to hang up on unsolicited requests for Social Security numbers or credit card details.
Average Americans get 2 billion spam calls every month, Truecaller says. Reporting these calls helps find and block scam numbers. If you get a threatening call, don’t talk back. Just note the details and report it right away.
Working together is key: over 150,000 reported numbers have helped stop scam networks. The FTC’s 2023 report shows 40% of scams were about fake debt relief. By following these steps, you help agencies fight scams better and keep communities safe.
Conclusion: Staying Vigilant in the Age of Phone Scams
Phone scams are a big problem, with over $52 million lost in the U.S. in 2022, the FBI says. Scammers use fake caller IDs to look like trusted places like Medicare or banks. To stay safe, use a mix of technology and being careful.
Signing up for the National Do Not Call Registry can cut down on unwanted calls. Tools like built-in call blocking and apps can also help spot and block suspicious numbers.
Real companies never ask for your personal info over the phone. Be wary of calls that ask for quick payments or use gift cards. The iSpoof case shows how big these scams can get with VoIP technology.
It’s important to report any scam calls to the FTC and CISA right away. This helps law enforcement catch scammers, like the 13-year sentence for iSpoof’s leader.
Small businesses and older adults need to watch their accounts for any strange activity. Using a VPN can help protect against vishing attacks that try to scare you into action. By being cautious and reporting scams, we can all help fight fraud.
Always treat unknown calls with caution until you’re sure they’re safe. Being alert now helps keep everyone safe and builds trust in our communities.
FAQ
What are some numbers not to call that are commonly associated with scams?
Avoid numbers on scam blacklists. These often include international codes like 900 and 876. Always check before calling back an unknown number.
How can I identify if a call is a scam?
Watch for signs like unknown numbers and requests for personal info. Be cautious of urgent calls. Use caller ID and be skeptical of calls from government or companies.
What should I do if I receive a harassing call?
Write down the call details, like the number and what was said. Tell the FCC or FTC about it. Block the number and tell your community too.
Are there effective ways to block spam calls?
Yes, phones have built-in call-blocking features. Apps offer more options. Reporting calls helps block them too.
How can I report unwanted calls effectively?
Collect info like the caller ID and when the call was made. Report it to the FCC, FTC, or local agencies. Say what the call was about and why it’s a problem.
What psychological tactics do scammers use to manipulate victims?
Scammers use tricks like pretending to be officials. They create urgency and fear. Knowing these tricks helps you avoid scams.
What technologies are scammers using to spoof phone numbers?
Scammers hide their numbers with caller ID spoofing. This makes them seem real. It’s a tech trick to fool people.
How do I create a personal blacklist of scam numbers?
Start by listing known scam numbers. Add new ones to your list. Use phone features and apps to keep your blacklist up to date.
