Dealing with Fake Missed Call Calls and Google Voice Spam

Have you ever received a call from an unknown number claiming that the caller issomeone you know, and that they have received a missed call from you? This can be frustrating, especially when you know you haven't made such calls. In this article, we will discuss the nature of these fake missed calls and provide practical solutions for dealing with them, with a particular focus on Google Voice numbers. We will also provide guidance on what steps to take if you suspect your Google Voice number has been used for spam.

Understanding Fake Missed Call Calls

Caller ID Spoofing

These fake missed call calls are most likely instances of caller ID spoofing. Caller ID spoofing is a practice where the caller deliberately changes the Caller ID information to mask their true identity. This can be done by using their own phone, a fake device, or software that allows the manipulation of the caller ID data. Despite the prevalence of this issue, it is crucial to understand that the practice of caller ID spoofing is generally legal in the United States and Canada, unless it is used with malicious intent or for fraudulent purposes. However, Google Voice and other VoIP services have security measures in place to combat this.

The Google Voice Experience

What is Google Voice?
Google Voice is a versatile voicemail service that allows users to:

Send free text messages from their mobile phone or computer Read their voicemail and search through it like email Customize their voicemail greetings for family and friends Make international calls at low rates Get protected from spam calls Block unwanted callers Screen calls before answering

As of now, it is available for free to all Gmail users.

How to Handle Fake Missed Call Calls

If you receive calls from unknown numbers claiming that they have received a missed call from you, the best course of action is often to stay calm and polite. Here are some steps you can follow:

1. Do Not Answer the Calls

Avoid answering these calls, as they may be a scam or an attempt to collect your personal information.

2. Report the Calls to Relevant Authorities

Report the calls to the appropriate authorities. In Canada, you can file a complaint with the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre by calling 1-888-495-8501 or visiting their website. This can help in taking action against the spammers and increasing awareness about the issue.

3. Block the Caller

Most VoIP services, including Google Voice, offer the option to block numbers. Use this feature to block any numbers that are causing you trouble. This can prevent the calls from reaching your device.

4. Ignore and Do Not Engage

Do not waste your time and energy trying to verify the calls. It is not worth the effort, as the scammer is likely to receive similar complaints from many other people. Instead, focus on blocking the numbers and moving on.

Conclusion

Handling fake missed call calls and Google Voice spam can be challenging, but understanding the issue and taking appropriate steps can significantly reduce the inconvenience. Stay vigilant and use your service provider's security features to protect your privacy and ensure a peaceful communication experience.

Reference:

Set up Voice - Android - Google Voice Help
Caller ID spoofing - Wikipedia

Further Reading:

Google Voice FAQs Caller ID Spoofing Prevention