Calls marked as “Scam Likely” on our caller IDs are typical in our increasingly connected environment. These calls instantly arouse suspicion and caution. Although it’s crucial to stay attentive in defending ourselves against scams, it’s also important to realize that not every “Scam Likely” call is actually a scam. We’ll go into the definition of “Scam Likely” in this post and examine why it’s not always a reliable predictor of fraudulent activity.
What is “Scam Likely”?
Some phone service providers or call-blocking programs could provide their customers the call identification option “Scam Likely” while receiving a call. The possibility that incoming calls are connected to scams is assessed using algorithms and databases based on patterns, well-known scam numbers, or other factors. When a call is marked as “Scam Likely,” it should be avoided and thoroughly examined before speaking with the caller.
Common Types of Scam Likely Calls
There are several types of scam calls that you might encounter:
Telemarketing Scams
These are calls where the caller tries to sell you something. Modern-day scammers are savvy and craft compelling narratives to target vulnerable populations.
Illegal Robocalls
These are pre-recorded voicemails that encourage consumers to talk to “warranty specialists” about extending or reinstating their car’s warranty. This is otherwise called “vishing”.
Scam Calls
These are designed to cause emotional or financial harm. For example, scammers might pretend to be from the Social Security Administration (SSA) or the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), calling to tell you that your SSN has been compromised or that you’re under investigation for fraud.
How do Scam Likely Calls Work?
False Positives
The algorithms used to identify scam calls are not foolproof. They rely on patterns and data to make educated guesses about the call’s legitimacy. However, these algorithms are not always accurate and may generate false positives, labeling legitimate calls as “Scam Likely.” It could be a result of outdated information, a similarity with known scam numbers, or other factors. Therefore, it’s important not to immediately dismiss every call labeled as “Scam Likely” without further investigation.
Legitimate Calls from Businesses
Sometimes, calls from legitimate businesses can be flagged as “Scam Likely” due to the way their systems or phone numbers are set up. For example, telemarketing calls or calls from customer service centers may trigger the algorithm’s suspicion, leading to a “Scam Likely” label. While these calls may not be scams in the traditional sense, they may still be unwanted or unsolicited. However, it’s crucial to differentiate between unwanted calls and actual fraudulent attempts.
Caller ID Spoofing
Scammers often employ techniques like caller ID spoofing to disguise their true identity or location. They manipulate the caller ID to display a familiar or trusted number, such as a local area code or a reputable organization. In such cases, even if the call is flagged as “Scam Likely,” it’s essential to exercise caution and employ additional measures to verify the caller’s legitimacy.
Why These Calls Are Difficult to Trace?
It is really tough for anyone, even the experts, to find out who these scammers are and where they’re calling from. It’s like they have lots of secret ways to stay hidden, which makes it harder to stop them from making these tricky, annoying calls.
Technology Advancements
Scammers leverage sophisticated technology, including Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services and caller ID spoofing, to conceal their true identities. These advancements allow them to mask their actual phone numbers, making it challenging for authorities to trace the origin of the calls accurately.
International Reach
Scam likely calls often originate from outside the recipient’s country. Perpetrators take advantage of international borders, operating from regions where regulations might be lax or where legal frameworks for cooperation with other countries are limited. This international scope complicates tracking efforts and hampers swift legal action against these scammers.
Frequent Number Changes
Scammers frequently change their phone numbers or use disposable phone numbers, making it difficult for call-blocking services or individuals to consistently identify and block them effectively. This practice of rapidly cycling through numbers prevents easy detection or blacklisting of their calling patterns.
Evasive Tactics
Scammers employ evasive tactics, such as using proxies, multiple layers of call rerouting, or even compromised legitimate numbers, further obscuring their true identities. These tactics create a complex web of connections, making it arduous to pinpoint the exact source of the fraudulent calls.
Limited Regulatory Oversight
The absence of robust global regulatory frameworks or enforcement mechanisms specifically tailored to combatting scam likely calls allows scammers to operate with relative impunity. Varying telecommunications regulations across different jurisdictions add layers of complexity to cross-border investigations, often hindering swift resolutions.
Constant Evolution of Methods
Scammers continuously adapt and evolve their methods in response to technological advancements and countermeasures implemented by telecommunications companies or law enforcement. This adaptability ensures that they stay ahead in the cat-and-mouse game, making tracing and preventing these calls an ongoing challenge.
How to Block “Scam Likely” Calls?
While not all “Scam Likely” calls are scams, it’s wise to approach them with caution.
Use a Third-Party Scam Call Blocking App
Consider using call-blocking apps or services that provide enhanced call verification features. These tools can help identify and block known scam numbers, provide call feedback from other users, and offer more accurate assessments of incoming calls. There are several call-blocking apps available for both Android and iOS devices.
It’s the easiest and the most effective to block Scam Likely calls via a call-blocking app like RealCall. It guards your phone from risky numbers and contacts. Apart from automatically blocking all unwanted calls behind the screen, RealCall also can filter necessary and normal calls based on the customized blocking rules set by you. Due to the AI technology and machine learning, RealCall gives users the highest protection. The more you use it, the better it works for you.
Use Carrier’s Scam Block Feature
Some carriers offer a “Scam Block” feature that can automatically block incoming calls tagged as Scam Likely. These services vary by carrier but generally involve features that automatically identify and block suspected scam numbers. Some carriers may offer these services for free, while others might require a subscription. Users can access and activate these features through their carrier’s settings or customer service.
Block Specific Phone Numbers with Built-in Features
You can block specific phone numbers on both iPhone and Android.
On iPhone, you can block a spam caller by tapping the i icon next to their number in the Phone app’s Recents section and then tapping “Block this caller”. You can also silence all calls from unknown numbers by going to Settings > Phone > Silence Unknown Callers.
On Android, you can enable the “See caller and spam ID” slider in the Phone app’s “Caller ID & spam” settings to identify spam callers. You can also use the “Filter spam calls” toggle to block spam calls.
National Do-Not-Call Registry
The National Do-Not-Call Registry allows individuals to opt out of receiving telemarketing calls. To register, visit the registry’s official website or call the registration number from the phone you wish to register. Once registered, telemarketers are prohibited from calling your registered number.While the Do-Not-Call Registry can reduce telemarketing calls, it might not entirely eliminate scam likely calls.
Report Suspected Scams
If you encounter a call that you believe to be a scam, report it to the appropriate authorities or the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in your country. Reporting scams helps authorities track down fraudsters and protect others from falling victim to similar schemes.
Conclusion
Although an incoming call with the label “Scam Likely” can cause concern, it’s crucial to keep in mind that not all calls with that designation are scams. Caller ID spoofing, true business calls, and false positives are some of the things that can affect the label. We may better navigate the world of phone scams and defend ourselves from fraudulent conduct by exercising care, confirming caller identification, and using extra resources. Keep yourself informed, on the lookout, and safe when communicating.