The FCC says port-out fraud is rising. Scammers move your phone number to another carrier, and that can give them a way into your money and accounts.
The Federal Communications Commission is warning that scammers are stealing phone numbers in a way called port-out fraud. A crook moves your number from your carrier to a new device they control. Both cell phone numbers and landline numbers can be hit. The FCC says this scam is on the rise.
Port-out fraud usually starts with stolen personal and banking details. Cybercriminals get that information from the dark web, a hidden part of the internet where stolen data is bought and sold. They then use it to move the victim's number to another carrier and gain control of private information.
Your phone number does more than ring. Many banks and other services send codes and alerts to it. If a scammer controls your number, calls and messages meant for you may go to them instead. That is why locking down your phone account helps protect your money.
Anyone with a cell phone or landline number could be targeted. The risk is higher for people whose personal or banking details have already leaked online. If you have ever received a data breach notice, take this warning seriously. If your details have never leaked, your risk is likely lower, but the basic protections are still worth setting up.
The alert box above lists the steps. In short, ask your carrier to lock your number against transfers and put a strong PIN on your account. These steps make it harder for a stranger to move your number, even if they have some of your details.
A sudden loss of phone service can be a sign that your number was moved. If your phone stops working for no clear reason, do not wait. Call your carrier and your bank right away.
The report does not say how many people have been hit or which carriers are involved. It also does not say how much money has been lost. WPXI says more advice is coming on its Channel 11 Morning News.
Call your phone carrier today, ask for a number lock and set a PIN, so a scammer cannot move your number to another carrier.
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