Spoofing when a well-known number hides a scam
Spoofing is a technique increasingly used by cybercriminals to deceive their victims. Behind a familiar number or address sometimes lies a well-honed fraud attempt. How can you recognize this scam and protect yourself effectively? We explain.
What is spoofing?
Spoofing consists in disguising the identity of a caller or sender (e-mail, SMS, telephone number...) in order to gain your trust. Using specialized software, fraudsters can create a false local number, a well-known contact name or even the identity of an official organization.
Their aim? To get you to disclose sensitive information, click on a booby-trapped link or make a payment.
The most common shapes
- Phone calls: a Swiss or known number is displayed, but the caller is trying to scam you (fake bank advisor, fake invoice...).
- E-mails: a message appears to come from an administration or customer service department, urging you to click on a fraudulent link.
- Social networks: a hacked contact or fake profile solicits you for financial assistance or personal information.
How can I protect myself from spoofing?
- Never give out your access codes or bank details by phone or e-mail, even if the request seems urgent.
- Check e-mail addresses, links and tone of message (often impersonal or urgent).
- Don't call back a dubious or unknown number immediately.
- Activate two-factor authentication on your sensitive accounts (e-mail, banking, etc.).
- Report any attempts to do so to your operator or on official platforms.
- Be careful, even if the call or message seems to come from a known person or company.
With the development of artificial intelligence, these attacks are becoming increasingly credible. Vigilance remains your best protection.