What to do if a scammer has your phone number: 9 expert tips to stay safe

After spending months digging through scam reports, victim testimonials, and fraud trend data, one thing became clear to me – your phone number is more powerful than it seems. While some might think that it's just a contact detail, it's actually a key scammers can use to unlock everything from phishing attempts to full-blown identity theft.

The Federal Trade Commission reports that when scams happen over the phone, victims lose more per person – with a median loss of $1500. TrueCaller’s 2024 report highlights just how serious phone scams have become, affecting over 56M Americans and costing them a staggering $25.4B.

These cyberattacks prey on trust, pressure, and speed. That’s why knowing what to do if a scammer has your phone number is essential. As a Cybernews expert, I’ve worked with our research team to identify what actually works.

9 tips on what to do if a scammer has your phone number

1. Block suspicious numbers immediately

If you get a suspicious call or text, block the number. Both Android and iOS make it easy to block recent callers or texts in just a few taps. You can also use third-party call-blocking apps that automatically keep updated lists of scam numbers to screen threats.

Blocking numbers may not stop all scams, but it can reduce repeat calls and help filter out similar ones. Taking this small step can prevent scammers from bothering you again.

2. Set up call and SMS filtering

If you receive many calls from unknown numbers or spam messages, set up call and SMS filtering. Most mobile carriers offer built-in features that label suspected scam calls and send them to voicemail.

You can also use apps that screen incoming calls and texts with real-time data. Although these filters are imperfect, they can significantly reduce contact with high-risk numbers. Keep your phone’s software and filtering tools updated to stay protected from new scams.

3. Watch for phishing texts or suspicious links

Be careful of phishing texts – called smishing. These messages can seem like they’re from your bank, delivery services, or government agencies and usually contain urgent language and a shortened link.

If you click the link, you might go to a fake site that tries to steal your passwords or financial details. Never click on unexpected links or respond to messages from unfamiliar numbers. When unsure, go directly to the company’s official site or app. Being aware and cautious will help protect you.

4. Enable two-factor authentication on important accounts

Even if scammers have your phone number, they’ll find it harder to access your accounts if you set up 2FA. Use app-based authentication, like Google Authenticator or Authy, instead of SMS codes for better security. Prioritize 2FA for your email, banking, social media, and shopping accounts.

These extra layers make it much harder for scammers to fully access your accounts, even if they trick you into giving them your password. Regularly check your account activity for any unusual logins or new devices.

5. Alert your mobile carrier about potential fraud

If you suspect your phone number has been targeted in a scam, contact your mobile provider immediately. Ask them to add a security PIN or password to your account to help prevent SIM swapping, where scammers transfer your number to a new SIM card.

Some carriers also provide extra security settings for your account. Acting quickly can prevent serious issues, like losing access to your email or bank accounts.

6. Monitor bank and credit accounts closely

Your phone number connects to your sensitive accounts, so you should check them often. Set up transaction alerts for banking and credit card accounts to catch any unauthorized activity immediately.

Review your monthly statements and digital wallet logs for anything unusual, even small amounts, that might indicate fraudulent behavior. Most banks have fraud reporting hotlines – don’t hesitate to call if something seems wrong. Being vigilant is essential to protect your finances.

7. Report scams to local authorities or the FTC

Even if you didn’t lose money, reporting scams can help the community. Agencies like the FTC and your local consumer protection office gather scam data to investigate and shut down fraud.

Taking a few minutes to file a report contributes to broader efforts against scammers. You can also share scam phone numbers with your carrier or call-blocking apps to help others stay safe.

8. Consider identity theft protection services

If your phone number might have been compromised, consider using identity theft protection services like Coveron, formerly NordProtect, or Aura. These tools track your personal information on the dark web and other risky areas. If your data appears where it shouldn’t, you’ll receive an alert to act fast.

However, Coveron is limited only to US users, but it still excludes its identity and cyber protection benefits for those residing in New York.

Many services also offer fraud recovery support and insurance, which can be very helpful if a scam escalates. While they are not a complete solution, these services provide extra protection and peace of mind.

9. Educate family and friends to avoid related scams

If your number is exposed, scammers might use it to impersonate you and target your contacts. Let your family and friends know if you’ve been involved in a scam so they can be on high alert. Teach them the basics – don’t send money, click links, or share codes based on a text or call alone.

Statistics show that older adults are often prime targets, so clear communication goes a long way. Encourage them to report suspicious messages and block any numbers pretending to be you.

Protect My Number with Coveron

How do scammers get your phone number?

Scammers can get your phone number more easily than you might expect – and once they do, it can lead to phishing, impersonation, or identity fraud. From data breaches to oversharing online, your number can end up in the wrong hands without you realizing it.

Here are some of the most common methods scammers use:

• Data breaches. Major leaks like those from telecom companies expose millions of phone numbers. These incidents often stem from poor cybersecurity practices and affect everything from mobile carriers to online retailers. Once breached, your number may end up on hacker forums or data dump sites.
• Social media oversharing. Public profiles sometimes display phone numbers without proper privacy settings. Even posting screenshots or “contact me” messages can give scammers what they need. Once indexed by search engines or scraped by bots, that information is hard to remove.
• Data broker websites. These companies legally collect and sell your contact information. They gather it from public sources, online forms, app permissions, and purchase histories. Scammers often buy bulk data from these brokers to build their target lists.
• Dark web marketplaces. Stolen personal info is bundled and sold in bulk. These markets offer phone numbers alongside names, emails, and passwords, making it easier for scammers to launch multi-layered attacks.
• Phishing scams. Fraudulent emails, texts, or fake giveaways trick you into revealing your number. These scams often mimic legitimate companies, creating a false sense of trust that lowers your guard.
• Autodialers. Scammers use bots to call random numbers until someone picks up. Numbers that respond are marked as “live,” making them more valuable for future scams.
• Public records. Certain official records like business registrations may include phone numbers. Depending on local laws, these records can be accessed by anyone, including data scrapers and scammers.

Signs that a scammer has your phone number

Some signs may suggest your number has been compromised. In many cases, these red flags appear after your data has been leaked or sold on data broker platforms. They’re often the first warning that broader identity theft could follow if not addressed quickly.

Below is a breakdown of most common red flags you should be aware of:

• You receive strange verification codes you didn’t request. These may indicate someone is trying to access your accounts.
• An uptick in robocalls or spam texts. A sudden surge could mean your number is being used or sold by scammers.
• Your contacts get suspicious messages from your number. Scammers may spoof your identity to trick friends or coworkers.
• Account access notifications from unknown devices or locations. This could signal SIM swapping or credential stuffing attempts.

What can scammers do with your phone number?

When it comes to exposed data, a stolen or leaked phone number can be used in several malicious ways. This is especially relevant in cases when your number is linked to emails, passwords, or financial accounts.

Here are the prime examples of what scammers can do with your phone number:

• SIM swap attacks. Scammers impersonate you to your carrier and port your number to a new SIM, then bypass 2FA and take over your accounts.
• Social engineering. Fraudsters call your contacts pretending to be you, often extracting more personal data or money.
• Signing up for services in your name. With your number and a few other details, scammers can open fake accounts or register for services, damaging your credit and reputation.
• Targeted phishing or extortion. Using your number, scammers may send fake messages claiming to be your bank, or threaten you using gathered personal info.

Should you change your phone number after identity theft?

Changing your number can be a drastic step, but sometimes it's necessary. If you're experiencing repeated harassment, targeted fraud attempts, or if your number is tied to a broader identity breach, a new number can provide relief.

However, it also means updating banks, apps, contacts, and multi-factor authentication settings – which can be time-consuming. Weigh the disruption against the ongoing risk before making a decision.

How to protect your phone number from scammers

If you wish to protect your phone number from scammers, prevention is your best defense. Here are my recommended steps to reduce your exposure:

• Avoid posting your number publicly. Don't share it on forums, job boards, or social media
• Use secondary numbers wherever possible. Best second phone number apps can help you reduce your phone number exposure. For instance, services like Surfshark’s Alternative Number or Dialpad give you disposable numbers for sign-ups or transactions
• Add a carrier PIN or passcode. This protects against unauthorized SIM swaps
• Audit your digital footprint. Regularly check which services have your number and remove it where possible
• Consider added protection. Using a dedicated identity protection service like Aura or Coveron. These tools monitor leaks, alert you to suspicious activity, and help secure your identity.

Protect your identity with Coveron

Final word

Your phone number is more than just a way to contact you – it’s a gateway to your digital life. Taking steps to protect it now can prevent serious problems later.

That’s why I highly recommend acting quickly if you have any slightest suspicions that your number has been compromised. What is more, pairing smart habits with a service like Aura or Coveron offers robust protection against modern identity threats, taking your cybersecurity to the next level.

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