If you have noticed an increase in the number of telemarketing and robocalls coming from your area code, you are not alone. Spoofing is the practice of transmitting false information to your caller ID, making it appear that an incoming call is local in the hopes you will be more likely to answer it. In many cases, spoofing itself is against the law and those who engage in the practice are often in violation of TCPA rules, which prohibit automated calling without prior consent.  You houdl complain to the FCC and FTC for any spoofing complaints .

FCC Rules On Spoofing

The Federal Trade Commission (FCC) has two specific rules regarding caller ID and telemarketers:

1. The company must transmit the actual phone number from which the call is being made and, if possible, the name of the company it is representing.
2. The number displayed must be an actual number you can call during business hours to request being put on their Do Not Contact list.

Scammers, as well as legitimate telemarketers, are aware that most people will not pick up their phone if they do not know the caller or suspect it is a sales call. As a result, the practice of spoofing has become increasingly common. The numbers used are a flagrant attempt to deceive consumers and those who engage in the practice can be subject to up to a $10,000 fine per violation.