How do hackers spoof a phone number?

Computer Hacking (security): How do you make your phone display another fake caller ID # when dialing others? (Also known as spoofing)

As of the time of writing this article, hackers are constantly evolving their techniques to spoof phone numbers. Phone number spoofing is the act of manipulating the Caller ID information to display a different phone number than the actual originating number. This allows hackers to deceive recipients into thinking they are receiving a call from a trusted party when, in reality, it could be a scam or a malicious attempt to gain access to sensitive information.

Why?

The primary motive behind phone number spoofing is to deceive and manipulate recipients for various malicious purposes. Some common reasons why hackers spoof phone numbers include:

Phishing: Hackers can spoof numbers to trick individuals into sharing personal information like credit card details, passwords, or social security numbers.

Scams: Spoofed phone numbers are often used in scams, such as the infamous IRS scam, where individuals pretend to be government officials demanding immediate payment to avoid legal consequences.

Social Engineering: By pretending to be someone else, hackers can build trust and manipulate individuals into performing certain actions, such as transferring funds or providing access to sensitive systems.

Identity Theft: Phone number spoofing can be utilized to gain access to personal accounts, exploit confidential information, or even facilitate SIM card hijacking.

How?

There are several methods that hackers employ to spoof phone numbers:

VoIP Services: Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services provide the flexibility to manipulate Caller ID information easily. Hackers can use these services to change the displayed phone number, making it difficult to trace the true origin of the call.

Caller ID Spoofing Tools: There are various software and online tools available that allow hackers to spoof phone numbers. These tools often require minimal technical knowledge and can be easily accessed and utilized.

Network Manipulation: By exploiting vulnerabilities in telecommunication networks or using compromised network infrastructure, hackers can alter the Caller ID information directly at the network level.

When?

Hackers can spoof phone numbers at any time they deem fit for their malicious activities. There is no specific timeframe or restriction associated with this technique.

Where?

Phone number spoofing can occur in any location where telecommunications services are available. However, it is important to note that the legality of phone number spoofing varies across different jurisdictions. Some countries have strict laws and regulations in place to combat phone number spoofing, while others may lack adequate legislation.

Who?

The responsibility for phone number spoofing lies with the hackers who carry out these malicious activities. Hackers can be individuals, organized groups, or even state-sponsored actors. Due to the anonymity provided by technology, it can be challenging to track down and identify the individuals or entities behind phone number spoofing attacks.

Note: The information provided in this article is current and as of this year, at the time of writing this article.