SCAM LIBRARY · PHISHING & LINKS

The spoofed caller-ID call

Scammers call you pretending to be a trusted organization by manipulating the phone number that shows up on your screen.

Documented by the FTC & FBI IC3 · reviewed 2026-07-06

How it works

You receive a call that looks like it's from your bank, the government, or another well-known organization—the caller ID seems legitimate. The caller creates urgency by claiming there's a problem with your account, a suspicious charge, or an urgent action required, and pressures you to confirm personal information or authorize a payment immediately.

Red flags

• The caller ID shows a familiar organization, but when you ask questions, the details don't quite match what you'd expect
• You're pressured to act immediately or threatened with account closure, arrest, or other serious consequences
• The caller asks you to verify personal information, send money, or install remote-access software

What to do

• Hang up and call the organization directly using the phone number on your official statement, website, or the back of your card—never use a number the caller provides
• Never confirm passwords, Social Security numbers, card details, or other sensitive information over the phone when you didn't initiate the call
• Report the call to the Federal Trade Commission at reportfraud.ftc.gov