My Mom Called Me Last Night: One Problem, She’s Been Dead 11 Years.

Last night, after supper, I sat down to relax and do some topic research for future articles. My cell phone rang, and the number on the screen was from my hometown and looked familiar. I answered, thinking it was the one cousin I still have living there. “Hello.” A very deep, almost demonic voice replied, “Matthew”? “Speaking.” Then I heard nothing. “Hello, Hello,” The line disconnects. Weird right? Oh My God, I realized that number looked familiar because it was my Mom’s number. The last time my mom called me was 11 years ago, the day she said she was not well and in the hospital. I called my daughter.

“Hi Honey, this will sound crazy, but have you received any calls from grandma’s number? She answered, “What!” and I told her the story. I called my brother, received the same reaction, and told him the story. I called my wife, who was away on business, and told her my weird experience. Her response? “What are you talking about?” was the reaction I received. However, my wife, the brains of the operation around here, came up with the answer to this strange mystery. “You received a spoofing call from a phone scam trying to record you saying yes.” “Yes, your right, and since I never said yes, they hung up. However, I was still amazed they had a number that had yet to call me in over 11 years.

How Scammers Trick You with Familiar Phone Numbers

Telephone scams have become increasingly prevalent, posing significant threats to individuals’ financial and personal security. In the United States alone, there was a startling 118% rise in scam calls targeting Americans in 2021 compared to 2020. Globally, the situation is equally concerning, with 4 out of every 10 adults in the UK receiving a suspicious call in 2021 and 2% falling into the scammers’ traps.

Caller ID Spoofing: How Scammers Deceive

Caller ID spoofing is the process by which scammers manipulate the information displayed on your caller ID to conceal their true identity, often making it appear that the call is coming from a local area code or a number you recognize. Sometimes, they may even impersonate a family member or someone you know to trick you into divulging sensitive information.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is actively working to block spoofed robocalls and develop technological solutions to prevent fake calls. Meanwhile, apps like TrueCaller and Mr. Number have emerged as helpful tools to identify and block spam callers.

Methods of Obtaining Phone Numbers by Scammers

Scammers deploy a variety of methods to obtain phone numbers. They may buy them on the dark web, use number generators, or scrape them from social media and web directories. Other tactics include using robocalls, where scammers use automated systems to dial many phone numbers, and leveraging data breaches, where personal information is leaked or stolen from online platforms.

Given these realities, exhibiting caution when sharing personal information online is crucial, as this data could potentially be exploited for phone scams.

Deceptive Techniques Used by Scammers

Scammers use a range of deceptive techniques to achieve their objectives. For instance, they employ scripted messages and robocalls to steal money or personal information. Their ultimate goal is to gain access to digital devices and online accounts, which often hold sensitive data.

To protect yourself, it’s important to be suspicious of uninvited calls and conduct thorough research before divulging personal information. Remember, spoofing a phone number without permission is illegal, and any instances of this should be reported to the FTC and other appropriate authorities.

Technological Advancements in Scam Calls

Scammers are increasingly leveraging advanced technologies to improve their success rates. Automated systems, for instance, allow them to make a large number of calls in a short period. Another technique is SIM swapping, which enables scammers to take control of victims’ social media accounts.

Legal Measures and Regulatory Actions

Spoofing a phone number without permission is illegal under the Truth in Caller ID Act. Violators can face significant penalties if they spoof with the intent to defraud, cause harm, or gain something of value. The FCC also requires the phone industry to adopt a robust caller ID authentication system to combat neighbor spoofing.

Protecting Against Scam Calls

To protect yourself from scam calls, avoid unsolicited calls and refrain from providing personal information. If you receive a hang-up call, avoid calling back, as this could be a trap. Call-blocking tools and apps can also be effective in preventing scam calls.

If your phone number is being spoofed, inform potential callers of this fact and consider placing a message on your voicemail to alert others.

Well, It Was Not My Mom

The use of a number or location I knew was what made me answer the call. I never answer calls from numbers I don’t know or not from people in my contacts. Telephone scams have become so widespread and sophisticated, posing significant risks to individuals worldwide. It’s important to stay vigilant and proactive in protecting yourself from scam calls. By following the tips provided and reporting any suspicious activity to authorities and the FTC, you can help combat this growing problem.