Number Spoofing
What is Spoofing?
Spoofing is the act of displaying a different number than what is assigned to you when dialing out. This is often used by large corporations to show a single main number for all outbound calls. It is also used by scammers to show someone else's number.
How does this apply to Telecom?
- Any user or IT engineer with a configurable PBX or another phone system can change what displays on their caller ID. This is a standard system functionality.
- This can be a real telephone number or a false number that does not exist.
- While it is not legal to display a number that does not belong to you, there are some people/businesses that do not abide by this regulation.
Nextiva’s stance on Spoofing
To protect our customers and outside users, Nextiva does not allow its customers to spoof a number they do not own. Spoofing a number you do not own is a violation of our AUP and is considered fraud. Accounts found spoofing false numbers will be terminated.
What to do if someone is spoofing your number
- This cannot be controlled by the owner of the number or by their provider
- Most victims of spoofing can successfully block numbers that are calling them again in the future.
- Nextiva can help you to set up call blocking, all you need to know is the phone numbers that need blocking!
- Nextiva can help you to set up call blocking, all you need to know is the phone numbers that need blocking!
- If you are getting calls from unknown callers not looking for your business, it is best to explain that your telephone number is being spoofed and that you did not actually make any calls.
- You can also place a message on your voicemail letting callers know that your number is being spoofed. Usually, scammers switch numbers frequently. It is likely that within hours they will no longer be using your number.
- You may file a complaint with the business that is spoofing your number if you can identify them too!
How do I request Spoofing?
Fax numbers cannot be spoofed
Please fill out the spoofing agreement form to request spoofing. You will need to include a current bill from the current provider, dated within 30 days, that shows the number(s) you are trying to spoof. If the bill that you have does not show the number(s) you are trying to spoof, a CSR (Customer Service Record) or screenshots of your current provider's portal showing your number(s) and account information are acceptable as long as a bill is still provided.
Please allow up to 3 business days to process. If additional information is needed, you will receive an email requesting specific information.