Caller ID has become one of the ways we decide whether to answer the phone.
When we see the name of a familiar business, a local phone number, or even the name of our bank, it’s natural to assume we know who’s calling.
Unfortunately, that’s not always the case.
Today’s technology allows criminals to make a phone call appear as though it’s coming from a trusted business, government agency, or even someone you know personally. This practice is known as caller ID spoofing.
While the technology behind it may sound complicated, protecting yourself doesn’t have to be.
The most important thing to remember is this:
Caller ID tells you where a call appears to come from. It doesn’t always tell you who is actually calling.
What Is Caller ID Spoofing?
Caller ID spoofing is when someone intentionally changes the phone number or name that appears on your caller ID.
For example, your phone may display:
- Your local bank
- A government agency
- A utility company
- A local phone number
- Even the name of someone you know
The caller hopes that seeing a familiar name or number will make you more likely to answer - and more likely to trust what they say.
That’s why it’s important to remember that caller ID is only one piece of information.
It should never be the only reason you trust a caller.
Why Criminals Use It
Scammers know that people are naturally more comfortable answering calls from organizations they recognize.
Once they have your attention, they often try to create urgency by saying things like:
- “We’ve detected suspicious activity on your account.”
- “Your debit card has been compromised.”
- “You owe money to a government agency.”
- “Your computer has a serious problem.”
- “A family member needs help.”
The goal isn’t simply to get you to answer the phone.
The goal is to get you to make a quick decision before taking time to verify the situation.
Four Questions to Ask During an Unexpected Call
1. Was I Expecting This Call?
Unexpected calls deserve a little extra attention.
If you weren’t expecting the call, don’t assume it’s legitimate simply because you recognize the caller ID.
Pause before sharing information or taking action.
2. Is the Caller Creating Urgency?
Be cautious if someone tells you:
- “You need to act immediately.”
- “Don’t hang up.”
- “Your account is in danger.”
- “You must make a payment today.”
- “Don’t tell anyone.”
Urgency is often a stronger warning sign than the caller ID itself.
3. What Am I Being Asked to Do?
Be especially cautious if someone asks you to:
- Share your password.
- Read back a verification code.
- Move money to another account.
- Purchase gift cards.
- Give them remote access to your computer.
- Stay on the phone while you log in to your accounts.
Legitimate organizations understand that you may want to verify the situation before taking action.
4. Can I Verify This Another Way?
This is where you take control of the conversation.
If you’re unsure:
- Politely end the call.
- Wait a few moments.
- Call the organization back using a phone number you already know and trust, such as the number on your debit card, monthly statement, or the company’s official website.
Remember the Second Source Rule:
Never verify a caller using the same phone call that asked you to take action.
What Should You Do?
If you receive an unexpected call:
✓ Don’t rely on caller ID alone.
✓ Never feel pressured to stay on the line.
✓ Don’t share passwords or one-time verification codes.
✓ End the call if something doesn’t feel right.
✓ Contact the organization using a trusted phone number before taking any action.
Remember
Caller ID is a helpful tool.
It is not proof of who is calling.
The next time your phone displays the name of a familiar business or organization, don’t ask yourself,
“Do I recognize this number?”
Instead ask,
“How can I independently verify who’s calling?”
That simple habit can help protect you from one of today’s most common phone scams.
Not Sure? Start With Us.
If you receive a phone call claiming to be from First Bank of Berne and something doesn’t seem right, hang up and call us using the number on your debit card, your monthly statement, or our official website.
We’ll gladly verify whether we contacted you and help you determine the safest next step.
Helping you bank with confidence is part of what we’re here for.