Guess what? Scammers are no longer content with crude, error-ridden emails; they're now infiltrating your landline or mobile phone using... spoofingThis is a technique they use to display a credible number and gain your trust. Before you instinctively give out a bank code or password, let's review the telltale signs of a scam and the protections you can activate!
For the past three years, Arcep has recorded a steady increase in complaints related to the display of fake phone numbers. The authority reminds the public that telephone identity theft is a crime and that perpetrators face fines and prison sentences; several investigations are already targeting operators who are not vigilant in routing these calls.
Telephone identity theft: what are we talking about?
A scammer uses software to display a number that does not belong to himThe goal is simple: to create an atmosphere of trust and collect confidential information (card number, access codes, personal data). In some cases, the fraudster even impersonates your relatives or a public service; you therefore answer the call without suspicion. This practice violates the French Penal Code and can also constitute aggravated fraud when funds are embezzled.
The consequences go beyond a simple annoying call: opening credit lines in your name, hacking of online accounts or resale of your data on clandestine forums.
Signs that should raise a red flag for you
- A familiar number accompanied by an unusual request
Is your supposed bank demanding a dynamic code or your password? Immediate suspicion: no bank validates a transaction over the phone like that. - A call made from… your own line
Technically impossible under normal conditions. Hang up and report it to your operator. - A manufactured emergency
The fraudster insists: "You must act within a minute or your account will be blocked." This pressure aims to cut short any verification process.
As soon as one of these signals appears: stop the conversation and then check the official number yourself on a document or an institutional website.
The right reflexes to protect yourself
1. Activate anti-spoofing filters
French operators now offer, often free of charge, a filtering service based on the call signatureWhen activated, suspicious numbers are automatically blocked. Check this option in your customer account or via your operator's technical support.
2. Verify the numbers with a reliable reverse phone lookup directory
Before calling someone back, look up their number. The France Inverse service is based on a continuously updated collaborative database; it helps you to identify telephone identity theft in a few seconds. You can also use a traditional directory that lists user reports.
3. Refuse to disclose any sensitive information
Neither your bank nor any government agency will ever ask you for your full PIN or password over the phone. If you have any doubts, hang up and then call the official number printed on your last statement.
4. Always report fraudulent calls
- 33700 : send the number by SMS to alert the platform for combating voice spam.
- Bloctel : Register on the list to opt out of commercial solicitation to limit future solicitations.
- I'm alerting Arcep Report the incident to populate the national database and expedite corrective actions.
Every report counts: several ranges of fraudulent numbers are deactivated each month thanks to these reports.
What should you do if you are already a victim?
Keep the evidence Screenshots, call logs, or voicemails: the more complete your file, the faster the authorities can track down the fraudster.
File a complaint with the police or gendarmerie. Telephone identity theft is punishable by law; investigators can request the operator to provide a detailed call log.
Make changes immediately If your credentials or passwords are compromised, enable multi-factor authentication on your critical services. Keep a close eye on your bank statements in the following weeks.
Tell those around you If your number has been hijacked, your loved ones will be able to ignore any suspicious calls supposedly coming from your line.
Phone spoofing exploits the instinctive trust you place in known numbers. By activating carrier filters, systematically verifying numbers using a reverse directory, and refusing any insistent requests, you significantly reduce the risk of disclosing sensitive data. Vigilance remains your best ally: hang up, verify, and then act accordingly.
