For some people, spoof calls are merely a major annoyance. While this is true to some extent, there is more to it than meets the eye. After all, they can often lead to dangerous situations if left unhandled. The very moment spoofers have access to your number, it may put your friends, family, and colleagues at risk.
Although employing personal security best practices is a remarkable way to reduce that risk from occurring, there are several specific tactics you can leverage in shutting down phone spoofing. Here is how to prevent phone number spoofing without feeling the heat.
Encourage Callbacks to Block Your Number
While it sounds counterintuitive, the best thing to do when your number is spoofed is to make it less accessible. In the event that someone receives a spoofed call from your number, they may call back to follow up. When this happens, it is essential for you to encourage the caller to block your number immediately. The blocking makes your number less attractive to spoofers, and more likely to fall naturally out of use.
File a Complaint with the FCC
If you try everything possible to protect yourself from spoofing, and you’re still experiencing issues, then it might be the ideal time to file a complaint with the FCC. Moreover, the FCC provides access to complaint data, such as helpful legal information and national statistics.
You don’t have to go overboard since it narrows down to sending in your issue via the FCC’s compliant submission form. Aside from the FCC, be sure to contact local law enforcement regarding the issue. And if it’s happening through your work number, let your employer know immediately. There is also nothing wrong with reporting the issue to your state’s attorney general.
Merely because you don’t know how to prevent phone number spoofing, it doesn’t mean it needs to be hassle. If you are more than willing to make the change, you can start over with a fresh number. Just ensure you add the new number to the National Do Not Call Registry.