Have you ever received a call that looked like it was from your bank, GP, or even a family member—only to find out it was a scam? This is caller ID spoofing, a rising threat in the UK. Scammers use this trick to disguise their true identity and trick people into sharing sensitive information.
In this blog, we’ll explain how spoofing works, why it’s so dangerous for landline users, and what steps you can take to protect yourself and your loved ones.
What Is Caller ID Spoofing on Landlines?
Caller ID spoofing is when fraudsters manipulate phone systems to display a fake number on your landline’s caller ID. Instead of seeing the scammer’s real number, you see something more trustworthy—like a local code, your bank’s name, or even a government office.
Scammers often use spoofing to:
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Impersonate banks: Claiming your account has been compromised.
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Pretend to be HMRC: Demanding tax payments.
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Pose as charities: Urging urgent donations.
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Mimic loved ones: Using local numbers to appear like a relative or neighbour.
In 2025, Action Fraud reported a sharp rise in spoofed calls linked to energy rebate scams, where fraudsters pretended to be utility providers.
Summary: Caller ID spoofing is a technique where scammers fake phone numbers on your landline’s display to appear trustworthy, often posing as banks, HMRC, charities, or even loved ones.
How Does Caller ID Spoofing Work Technically?
Fraudsters exploit modern telecom systems:
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VoIP technology: Internet-based calling allows easy number manipulation.
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International call routing: Calls made overseas are routed through UK-like numbers.
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Software tools: Spoofing apps or illegal diallers generate fake caller IDs.
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Mass robocalling: Automated systems send thousands of spoofed calls every hour.
The trick works because most landline systems were built before these threats existed. They simply display whatever caller ID is provided—without verifying if it’s genuine.
Summary: Caller ID spoofing works by exploiting VoIP systems, international routing, and caller ID display weaknesses, letting scammers disguise their true number.
Why Is Caller ID Spoofing Dangerous for UK Households?
Spoofing makes scams harder to detect:
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Trust factor: People are more likely to answer when they recognise the number.
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Pressure tactics: Once on the call, fraudsters use urgency to push victims into action.
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Financial loss: Victims have been tricked into transferring thousands of pounds.
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Elderly risk: Seniors relying on landlines are often the main targets.
Summary: Caller ID spoofing is dangerous because it exploits trust, pressures victims into quick decisions, and often leads to financial loss, especially among the elderly.
How Can You Protect Yourself From Caller ID Spoofing in the UK?
Here are key steps:
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Don’t trust caller ID alone – Even if it looks genuine, it may be spoofed.
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Hang up and verify – Call your bank, HMRC, or service provider using the official number from their website.
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Use a call blocker device – Products like CPR Call Blocker can filter unknown numbers and block repeat offenders.
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Report suspicious calls – Share details with Action Fraud or the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO).
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Educate family members – Remind elderly relatives not to give personal details over the phone.
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Register with TPS – While it won’t stop spoofing, it reduces legitimate cold calls and makes scams easier to spot.
Summary: UK residents can protect themselves by distrusting caller ID, verifying with official numbers, using call blockers, reporting scams, and educating family.
Conclusion
Caller ID spoofing is one of the most dangerous tools used by fraudsters in the UK. By learning how it works and refusing to trust caller ID alone, you can avoid falling into their trap.
Explore our range of call blockers to protect your home.
FAQs
Q: Can caller ID spoofing be stopped in the UK?
A: Not completely, but call blockers and reporting scams to Action Fraud can help reduce the risks.
Q: Why are elderly people most at risk?
A: They rely on landlines, answer more unknown calls, and may be more trusting.
Q: Does TPS stop spoofed calls?
A: No, TPS only blocks legitimate telemarketing, not fraudsters.
Q: What should I do if I answered a spoofed call?
A: Hang up, don’t share information, and call back using the official number.
