Scam Call Numbers - How to Locate Them and Protect Yourself

Tools to Check Suspicious Numbers

If an unknown number calls you, use these free resources to check its safety profile before calling back:

• Malwarebytes Scam Number Check: A free lookup tool provided by Malwarebytes that scans active global threat intelligence databases to see if a number has been flagged by others.
• Public Search Engines: Copy and paste the phone number directly into Google. If it is part of a widespread scam, results will often lead to community warning forums.
• Carrier and OS Security: Turn on native features like "Silence Unknown Callers" on iOS or "Spam Protection" on Android to automatically filter out unverified numbers.

Common Scam Number Patterns

While specific numbers rotate daily, scammers frequently rely on these recognizable telephone patterns:

• Neighbor Spoofing: Match the first 6 digits of your personal phone number to make you think a local resident or business is calling.
• Deceptive International Codes: Calls originating from codes like +7 (Russia), +234 (Nigeria), +92 (Pakistan), or certain Caribbean codes that mimic domestic US area codes.
• Wangiri (One-Ring) Tactics: Inbound calls that ring exactly once. They want you to curiously call back, routing your line through high-fee international premium rate numbers.
• Fake Toll-Free Claims: Standard looking 833, 844, 855, or 866 numbers left in voicemails regarding fake tech support, automated bank fraud alerts, or immediate tax/legal penalties.

Rules for Handling Unknown Callers

1. Never use provided callbacks: If a caller claims to be from your bank or a government agency, hang up immediately. Manually look up the organization's official public hotline and dial them directly.
2. Watch for carrier dial codes: Never dial codes like *72 or *21 followed by an unfamiliar phone number if instructed by a caller. This activates immediate call forwarding, giving fraudsters the power to intercept your SMS two-factor verification codes.
3. Audit your phone routing: If you suspect your phone line has already been tampered with, dial *#61# on your device to view your active call forwarding settings. If unauthorized numbers appear, dial ##002# to instantly reset all forwarding rules to default.