Here’s How to Keep Robocall Scammers at Bay

Officials warn that robocall scammers have a new tactic to make you answer the phone. The strategy, dubbed “Neighbor Spoofing,” is against the law. Scammers are now using the same area code as your phone number to make you wonder who might be calling you.

Robocallers are using an advanced technology to trick consumers into believing that they are getting a trustworthy local phone call. Even though they may be calling from a different state, scammers are using “local” digits” to make you answer the phone.

• Scammers who falsify their caller ID information are usually looking for your personal data.
• They often try to obtain the data by telling you that you have won a vacation or a prize.
• Others lie about their identity, saying that they call you on behalf of your bank, pharmacy, or doctor.

The good news is that there are ways to keep scammers at bay.

Robocall Phone Scams Can Be Prevented

The number one prevention tool is not taking the call and let the voicemail get it. If you do happen to answer the phone, do not use the word “Yes” as scammers can record it and use it for the authorization of fraudulent purchases.

Another prevention method is to add your phone number to the Federal Trade Commission’s database that bars telemarketers from calling the numbers in it.

In addition, report any unwanted robocall to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or the FCC. Under FCC’s rules, telemarketers are barred from using fake caller IDs when calling.

There are also plenty of apps that can block robocalls. FCC recommends the RoboKiller app as the most effective. The app is compatible with both Android and iOS devices.

If you have been defrauded or your private information was stolen in a robocall scam report the incident to the police asap.
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