Protect Yourself against Caller ID Spoofing, Phishing and SIM Card Swapping Fraud

 “Spoofing” is a technique used by criminals to falsify the telephone number and/or name that appears on a person’s Caller ID so it appears as if the calls are coming from another source, like a well-known company.

These criminals then use another tactic called “phishing” to trick customers into sharing personal information over the phone, allowing them to gain access to wireless accounts.  Before ending the call, the fraudsters ask personal verification questions which could include things such as  social security number, passwords, address and last name.

Recent reports show scammers are using this information to gain access to wireless accounts resulting in phone number hijacking or SIM card swapping.  All wireless customers, regardless of carrier should be aware of these scams, as they could be impacted.

Spoofing and phishing scams have been around for some time. However, criminals are always changing their tactics, so we’re reminding customers to be aware of these schemes and remain cautious. We recommend customers follow these tips issued by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to avoid becoming a victim of any of these known scams:

 Tips for Consumers


  • Never give out personal information in response to an incoming call. Identity thieves are clever – they often pose as representatives of banks, credit card companies, creditors, or government agencies to get people to reveal their account numbers, Social Security numbers, mother’s maiden names, passwords and other identifying information.
  • If you get a call from a company or government agency seeking personal information, don’t provide it. Instead, hang up and call the phone number on your account statement, in the phone book, or on the company’s or government agency’s website to find out if the entity that supposedly called you actually needs the requested information from you.

Please let the FCC know about ID spoofers by calling 1-888-CALL-FCC or filing a complaint at www.fcc.gov/complaints.


- See more at: http://blogs.att.net/consumerblog/story/a7790879#sthash.wx7W2jC0.dpuf

Via At&t Consumer Blog