Phone scams on landlines are a major problem in the United States, costing Americans billions each year. Scammers target vulnerable people—often seniors—by posing as officials, companies, or charities to steal money and personal information.
This blog explains the most common US landline scams, how fraudsters trick people, and the steps you can take to avoid them.
What Are the Most Common Types of Phone Scams on Landlines in the US?
The most frequently reported scams include:
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IRS scams: Callers pretend to be tax officials, demanding “immediate payment” of back taxes.
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Banking scams: Fraudsters impersonate banks, warning of “suspicious charges.”
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Prize and lottery scams: Victims are told they’ve “won big” but must pay fees upfront.
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Tech support scams: Fake technicians claim your computer is infected with malware.
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Charity scams: Criminals impersonate charities after natural disasters or emergencies.
These scams work because they mimic real-life organizations people trust, like the IRS or major banks.
Summary: The most common US landline scams include IRS fraud, banking scams, lottery scams, tech support tricks, and fake charity appeals.
How Do US Scammers Convince People They’re Legitimate?
Fraudsters use several methods to sound believable:
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Caller ID spoofing: They fake numbers to show “IRS” or “Bank.”
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Authority tactics: Posing as government or corporate officials.
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Urgency and threats: Warning of arrests, fines, or cancelled services.
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Fake verification: Giving “case numbers” or “employee IDs.”
The IRS scam is especially dangerous, with fraudsters threatening arrest unless payment is made immediately via wire transfer or gift cards.
Summary: US scammers use spoofed numbers, authority roles, threats, and fake verification to trick people into believing their lies.
What Can You Do to Avoid Phone Scams on Landlines in the US?
Here are effective steps for Americans:
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Never give personal information to unsolicited callers.
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Verify by calling back: Use the official number from the IRS or your bank’s website.
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Join the National Do Not Call Registry: This reduces unwanted telemarketing calls.
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Use a call blocker device: Products like CPR Call Blocker can block nuisance calls.
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Report scams: File complaints with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
Summary: US residents can protect themselves by verifying calls, using call blockers, joining the Do Not Call Registry, and reporting scams to the FTC or FCC.
Conclusion
Phone scams on US landlines are on the rise, but staying informed and using tools like call blockers can help you and your loved ones avoid becoming victims.
Explore our range of call blockers to protect your home.
FAQs
Q: How do I report a scam call in the US?
A: Report it to the FTC or FCC at consumer.ftc.gov.
Q: Who is most at risk of US landline scams?
A: Older adults are often targeted due to being more trusting or less familiar with scam tactics.
Q: Do call blockers work in the US?
A: Yes, they can block scam numbers and reduce nuisance calls.
Q: Why do scammers ask for payment in gift cards?
A: Gift cards are hard to trace, making them a favorite payment method for fraudsters.
