DOTHAN, Ala. (WDNews) — As robocalls and phone scams continue to rise nationwide, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is urging Americans to take precautions and be aware of the warning signs that could prevent them from becoming victims. The agency is also offering guidance on how to handle suspicious calls and protect personal information.
One of the FCC’s most important reminders is to avoid answering calls from unfamiliar numbers. Even if the caller ID displays a local number, that doesn’t guarantee the call is legitimate. Scammers often use “spoofing” techniques to disguise their numbers in an attempt to appear trustworthy.
“If you don’t recognize the number, let it go to voicemail,” FCC officials advise. “And if you do answer, hang up immediately if anything feels off.”
A common tactic among scammers is to use automated messages that instruct the person on the other end to press a button to stop receiving calls. However, doing so can actually signal to scammers that the number is active—leading to even more unwanted calls in the future. Additionally, some robocallers ask questions designed to provoke a “yes” response, which they may record and misuse as a form of consent.
Officials stress that you should never provide personal or financial information over the phone, especially if the call was unsolicited. This includes Social Security numbers, bank account details, or passwords. Instead, residents are encouraged to independently verify any claims made during such calls.
“If someone says they’re calling from your bank or a government agency and asks for sensitive information, hang up and call the number listed on your statement or on their official website,” the FCC said. “In most legitimate cases, you will receive a written notice before a phone call is made.”
The FCC also recommends securing voicemail accounts by setting up passwords. Some voicemail systems grant access automatically when called from the account holder’s phone number—a vulnerability scammers can exploit by spoofing that number.
Residents are encouraged to speak with their phone service providers about robocall-blocking tools or explore third-party mobile apps designed to filter and block unwanted calls. Many of these services also allow users to report spam numbers to improve blocking technology for all users.
To reduce calls from legitimate telemarketers, consumers can register their number on the National Do Not Call Registry at www.donotcall.gov. While this won’t stop scammers who ignore the rules, it does help limit calls from businesses that follow federal regulations.
Locally, the Houston County Sheriff’s Office is warning of a specific scam targeting area residents. According to the department, individuals have received calls from people falsely claiming to be law enforcement officers. The callers often pressure victims to pay money immediately to avoid arrest.
“These are scams. We do not call to tell you about a missed court date or a warrant,” the sheriff’s office said in a statement. “We also do not ask for payments over the phone.”
Anyone who receives such a call is urged to hang up and contact the Houston County Sheriff’s Office directly at 334-677-4808 to verify the information.
As technology evolves, scam tactics continue to become more sophisticated. But with awareness, caution, and the right tools, residents can better protect themselves and their personal information.
