For those older that 35, there was a time when you actually needed to pick up a phone to find out who was on the line. There was a time when Caller ID did NOT exist. These days, there isn’t a person out there who doesn’t use Caller ID on a daily basis, to see if it’s a call their waiting for, to see if its family or friends, to see if it’s a bill collector (yep that happens as well). However with the advancement in technology, we also have easier and cheaper ways to “fool” technology, and unfortunately the bad guys have found a way to try to use technology against you.
There are numerous apps and services that allow you to change what is shown someone’s Caller ID for just a few dollars investment. Services like SpoofCard, which allows you to “display a number I intend them to see”.
And how easy is it to use, VERY EASY!. From SpoofCards own FAQ section
What is SpoofCard?
SpoofCard offers the ability to change what someone sees on their caller ID display when they receive a phone call. Simply dial SpoofCard’s toll free number or local access number in your country and then enter your PIN. You’ll then be prompted to enter the destination number followed by the phone number to appear on caller ID. It’s that easy!
SpoofCard is only 1 of 100s of services out there that will allow anyone the ability to change their Caller ID numbers. For the record these services are completely legal and there are many legal and legitimate reasons why you would need to use a service like this (we are not trying to pick on SpoofCard)
(LINK) Fox 29 News (http://www NULL.myfoxphilly NULL.com/dpp/news/local_news/fox-investigates%3A-phone-app-scam) (In Philadelphia) spotlighted a scam that is becoming more common. In this scam the unsuspecting victim gets a call and sees a local number that if they check appears to be from local law enforcement, the caller claims to be a member of that law enforcement agency and claims that unless a payment is made for a debt that a warrant for arrest will be issued. In the Fox 29 story, the person fortunately knew it was a scam.
After seeing the story, remember your Caller ID may not always show the true person who is calling. If you ever get a call like that, call the number back and ask for the person who called (or even better the persons supervisor). Also remember, you have rights under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, that anyone claiming you own them a debt must provide you with written proof upon request (That’s important, you must make the request).