Florida Consumer E-Newsletter |
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Download PDF version [635K PDF]
A Message from the Commissioner...
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Dear Friends: Caller ID spoofing is when a caller can pretend to be someone else by falsifying the number or name that appears on the recipient's caller ID display. Just as email spoofing is used to manipulate a sender’s email address, caller ID spoofing enables telephone callers to insert any name or phone number that he or she wishes to show up on the caller ID display of the person being called. In some cases, it even allows the caller to change his or her voice - for example, from male to female, or adult to child. |
Caller ID spoofing has been available for years to people with a specialized digital connection to the telephone company. Collection agencies, law enforcement entities and private investigators have used this method in the past. However, with the advent of voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) service, it makes it much simpler for the average person, or business to spoof using caller ID.
It is important to be extremely vigilant when dealing with unsolicited sales calls. Do not give out personal or financial information, including social security number, date of birth, credit card number and bank account number, unless you’re certain about with whom you’re dealing. Spoofers have been known to use names and phone numbers of legitimate businesses with the intention of getting people to reveal their personal data and passwords. With that information, con artists can run up charges on unsuspecting people’s credit cards, clean out their bank accounts and even assume your identity for the purpose of opening up additional lines of credit.
ID spoofing is yet another example of why it’s extremely important to exercise caution with your personal or financial information. You simply cannot be too careful.
For additional information about spoofing, phishing, identity theft, or other consumer issues please visit our website at www.800helpfla.com. You can also request free literature by mail. Give us a call today at 1-800-HELP-FLA (435-7352) within Florida, 850-488-2221 outside of Florida or ¡Español! 1-800-FL-AYUDA (352-9832) and a consumer specialist will be happy to assist you.
Remember... consumer education is the best defense against fraud and deception.
Sincerely,
Charles H. Bronson
Commissioner
Additional Resources
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Identity Theft, How to Avoid
Did you know that your personal information can be stolen? It's hard to believe, but if you aren't careful with your personal information you may be an easy target for identity theft. Review this brochure to see how you can avoid becoming a victim of identity theft! (¡Español!)
Telemarketing Fraud, Recognize and Avoid: Many of us are bombarded with telemarketing phone calls throughout the day. However, it is sometimes difficult to weed out the telemarketing scams from legitimate offers. Review this brochure for some hints to avoid telemarketing fraud. (¡Español!)
The links below are for your information only. The goal of the Division of Consumer Services is to provide additional information to consumers. The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services does not review or confirm these sites for accuracy.
Federal Trade Commission (FTC) - Identity Theft Information
This website is a one-stop national resource to learn about the crime of identity theft. It provides detailed information to help you deter, detect and defend against identity theft.
Federal Trade Commission - Telemarketing Fraud Information
Unlike most other crimes, telemarketing fraud requires one essential element: victim participation. We're all potential targets, because fraud isn't limited by race, ethnic background, gender, age, education or income.
