Robocall Fraud

Robocalls use auto-dialing software to place millions of calls simultaneously at negligible cost. When the recipient answers, they hear a recorded message — often a threatening notification about an unpaid tax debt, a suspended Social Security number, a compromised bank account, or an arrest warrant. The message instructs the victim to call back a number where a live scammer or a further automated system attempts to extract money or personal information.

Caller-ID spoofing allows robocallers to display numbers belonging to the IRS, Social Security Administration, a local police department, or the victim's own bank. The calls are frequently routed through internet telephony providers in jurisdictions where enforcement is difficult. Despite regulatory crackdowns and STIR/SHAKEN implementation, billions of robocall fraud attempts still reach consumers monthly.

Legitimate government agencies do not threaten arrest over the phone or demand payment by gift card. If you receive such a call, hang up. File a report with the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov. Call-blocking apps and carrier-level spam labelling substantially reduce the volume of robocalls that reach you.