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HomeWhy You’re Marked Scam Likely, and How to Fight Back [CHECKLIST]InsightsWhy You’re Marked Scam Likely, and How to Fight Back [CHECKLIST]

Why You’re Marked Scam Likely, and How to Fight Back [CHECKLIST]

Have you ever received a call, only to look at your phone and see “Scam Likely” or “Scam Likely Calls” on the screen? It’s a frustrating experience. You wonder who’s trying to reach you, and you may even worry if you missed something important. In this blog post, we’ll explore why your phone is marking certain calls as “Scam Likely,” what it means, and what you can do about it.

What Does “Scam Likely” Mean?

If you’ve ever seen the label “Scam Likely” on your phone, you’re probably wondering: What does scam likely mean?
“Scam Likely” is a warning that your phone provider or a third-party service has flagged the incoming call as potentially fraudulent. It’s based on patterns and algorithms that detect suspicious behavior. This label shows up as a way to protect you from scam likely numbers that may be trying to trick you into giving up personal information or money.

Why Are Calls Marked as “Scam Likely”?

The main reason your phone might display “Scam Likely” is because of a system called Caller ID spoofing. Scammers use this tactic to hide their real number by making it appear as if they are calling from a trusted or local number. By doing this, they try to increase the chances of you answering the phone, hoping you’ll fall for a scam.

Here are some reasons why scam likely calls happen:

  • High Frequency of Calls from the Same Number: If the same number repeatedly tries to contact many people, it can raise a red flag.
  • Suspicious Area Codes: Scammers may use area codes that look familiar or match your own to trick you into thinking it’s a local call.
  • Automated Calls: Scammers often use robocalls to reach as many people as possible in a short time.
  • Unsolicited Calls: If you didn’t sign up for anything and suddenly get an unexpected call, it might be flagged as a scam likely call.

Common Examples of Scam Likely Numbers

  • Fake IRS or Tax Scams: Calls claiming to be from the IRS, saying you owe money and need to pay immediately.
  • Tech Support Scams: Calls saying your computer has a virus, and they need remote access to fix it.
  • Prize Scams: Calls telling you that you’ve won a prize but need to pay fees or taxes to claim it.
  • Bank Account Scams: Calls pretending to be from your bank, asking for account details to “verify” your identity.

These are just a few examples of scam likely calls. There are many types of scams, and scammers are constantly coming up with new ways to trick you.

How Are Scam Likely Calls Identified?

Phone carriers and third-party apps use a combination of methods to identify scam likely calls. This includes:

  1. Spam Reporting: If many people report a particular number as a scam, it becomes more likely to be flagged as “Scam Likely.”
  2. Pattern Recognition: Algorithms detect patterns in how and when a number is dialing. For example, numbers that frequently call at odd hours or numbers with a high volume of outgoing calls are often flagged.
  3. Blacklists: Some services maintain blacklists of known scam likely numbers, and they mark incoming calls from these numbers accordingly.
  4. Robocall Detection: Robocallers are automated systems that make mass calls. If an incoming call is detected to be from a robocaller, it might be flagged as scamlikely.

Why Do You Get Marked “Scam Likely” Even If It’s a Legitimate Call?

Sometimes, you may see “Scam Likely” even if the call is coming from a legitimate business or person. Here are few reasons 

  • Business Number Spoofing: Some businesses may unknowingly get flagged if their calls are made from a system that’s similar to a scammer’s technology.
  • Shared Numbers: A number that was once used by a scammer may still be marked, even after it’s been reassigned to a legitimate user or business.
  • Mistaken Patterns: Sometimes, algorithms make mistakes, and a real number might get flagged based on patterns that resemble scam likely calls.

Problems Associated with Scam Likely Calls

  1. Missed Important Calls
    If you see “Scam Likely” on your phone, you might decide to ignore it, fearing it’s a scam. However, you could miss an important call from your doctor, a work opportunity, or a family member.
  2. Increased Anxiety
    Constantly receiving “Scam Likely Calls” can make you anxious. You may start to distrust legitimate calls because you’re worried about scams.
  3. Unnecessary Call Screening
    If you don’t know the caller, you may hesitate to answer, leading to missed communication. It can be especially frustrating if the number is actually a legitimate one.

How to Fight Back Against Scam Likely Calls

Now that you know why you’re seeing “Scam Likely” on your phone, let’s talk about how you can fight back and protect yourself from potential scams. 

1. Don’t Answer Unknown Calls

If the call is labeled as “Scam Likely” or shows an unknown number, it’s best not to pick up.

  • Problem: You may miss important calls.
  • Solution: If the call is important, the person will likely leave a voicemail, or you can call them back if you recognize the number later.

2. Use a Call Blocking App

There are many apps available that can help block scam likely calls. 

  • RoboKiller
  • Truecaller
  • Hiya
  • Nomorobo

These apps analyze incoming calls and can automatically block scam likely numbers before you even see them.

  • Problem: You might get bombarded with spam and robocalls.
  • Solution: Download a call-blocking app to prevent scam likely calls.

3. Enable Your Carrier’s Scam Protection Service

Most phone carriers offer free or low-cost scam protection services. For example, Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile provide features like Scam Shield or Call Protect, which help identify and block scam likely calls.

  • Problem: Scam likely calls keep coming through.
  • Solution: Contact your carrier to enable scam protection services.

4. Manually Block Numbers

If you receive a scam likely call from a specific number, you can manually block it. Most smartphones have a built-in option to block specific numbers from calling or texting.

  • Problem: Calls keep coming from the same scam number.
  • Solution: Block the number directly on your phone to stop future calls from that number.

5. Report Scam Likely Calls

If you do get a scam likely call, it’s helpful to report it. You can report these numbers to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or use services like the Do Not Call Registry to help stop unwanted calls.

  • Problem: You continue getting unwanted scam calls.
  • Solution: Report the scam likely number to prevent others from falling victim.

6. Verify the Caller

If you decide to answer a call that’s marked as scam likely, you should always verify the caller’s identity.

  • Ask for the company’s name, the reason for the call, and the representative’s name.
  • If they seem suspicious or avoid answering your questions, hang up.
  • Problem: Fear of falling for a scam.
  • Solution: Always verify the caller’s identity before providing any personal information.

7. Stay Informed About Common Scams

Being aware of the types of scams can help you identify a fraudulent call faster. Some of the most common scams include IRS scams, tech support scams, and fake lottery prizes.

  • Problem: You don’t know how to spot scams.
  • Solution: Educate yourself about common scams to better identify them when they occur.

Conclusion

Receiving scam likely calls can be frustrating, but now you know why this happens and how you can fight back. By following the checklist above, you can protect yourself from scams and avoid missing important calls. Whether it’s blocking numbers, using scam protection services, or staying informed, there are plenty of ways to reduce the number of scam likely calls you receive.

Remember: Stay cautious, stay informed, and never share personal information with unknown callers.