What is spoofing and how to protect yourself from phone scams?

The Communications Regulation Commission (CRC), in cooperation with A1, Vivacom, and Yettel, is launching a campaign against the frequent cases of phone scams through number forgery, known as "spoofing" (caller ID spoofing).

Scammers manipulate the caller ID to make it look like they are calling you from a bank, the police, or another trusted institution.

How do these scams work?

  • Technical manipulation: The number displayed on your screen does not correspond to the actual source.
  • Theft of trust: The goal is to convince you to provide personal data, PIN codes, or bank card details.
  • Misuse of a personal number: If someone calls you claiming they have a "missed" call from you, it is possible that your number has been used by scammers without your knowledge.

Important security recommendations:

  • Be skeptical: The phone number on the screen is not a guarantee of the caller's identity.
  • Do not share data: Never give out confirmation codes, passwords, or banking information over the phone.
  • Verify information: If in doubt, hang up and contact the institution through their official contact channels.
  • Report it: If you become a victim of a scam, immediately notify the Ministry of Interior and your bank if financial data was involved.