Fraudsters use technology to disguise their phone number so it appears the call is coming from a bank, business, or government agency. The caller may pressure you to provide sensitive information like account details and payment authorization. Do not rely on caller ID alone. Instead, hang up and call back using a number you know is legitimate, such as the one on your bank’s official website.

 

A few Dos and Don’ts to help avoid Caller ID spoofing scams.

 

Identity theft occurs when a criminal gains access to personal or business information and uses it to impersonate the rightful owner. They then use this information to commit fraud, such as opening accounts in another name or diverting legitimate payments. 

In 2024, more than 1.1 million reports of identity theft were submitted through the FTC’s IdentityTheft.gov website, showing how widespread the problem has become. The Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division provides fraud awareness resources and ways to report cases. If you notice account activity that does not appear legitimate, contact your bank immediately.

Business Email Compromise targets companies by impersonating executives, vendors, or co-workers through email. Messages often include urgent requests for wire transfers or sensitive information. Always check the sender’s address carefully and verify unusual requests with a phone call before acting.

Criminals may alter checks, intercept payment instructions, or attempt unauthorized transfers. Because these transactions can look routine, they may be difficult to detect quickly. Review your accounts often, confirm payment changes directly with vendors, and contact your bank immediately if you notice irregular activity.