9 ways scammers can use your phone number

Why Scammers Want Your Phone Number

Your phone number is more powerful than you think. In the wrong hands, it can be used to:

According to the ACCC’s Scamwatch, thousands of Australians fall victim to phone-related scams every year, with reported losses reaching over $70 million in 2024 alone.

In the US, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) reported a surge in number-based scams, with mobile phone fraud and SIM swapping topping the list.

1. SIM Swapping (Port-Out Fraud)

Scammers trick your telco into transferring your phone number to a SIM they control. Once they have your number, they can:

Real Case (Australia, 2024): A Melbourne woman lost over $30,000 when her number was ported to a scammer, who used it to drain her bank and crypto accounts within hours.

Real Case (USA, 2023): In Texas, a crypto investor lost over $500,000 after scammers ported his number. Within minutes, they accessed his Coinbase account using intercepted 2FA codes.

2. Impersonation Scams

Scammers can use your number to impersonate you in messages or calls:

They may use spoofing tools to make it look like calls are coming from your number.

Example: An Adelaide man had his number spoofed by scammers running a rental property scam. Victims transferred money thinking they were dealing with him.

3. Robocalls & Spam Campaigns

Stolen phone numbers are added to call lists that:

Once flagged, your number might be blacklisted or marked as spam—hurting your own credibility and causing you to miss real calls.

4. Accessing Online Accounts

Many services use your phone number for logins, 2FA, or recovery. A scammer with access might:

If they also have your email, the damage can multiply quickly. In some cases, they can also change your account recovery information.

5. Harassment or Threats

Some scammers use your number to:

This is common in sextortion and revenge scams. Victims often face emotional distress and reputational harm.

6. Bait for Social Engineering

With just your number, scammers can:

They exploit emotional triggers and urgency. One Sydney couple lost $9,000 after receiving a fake message about a family member in hospital, followed by a call from a scammer posing as a doctor.

7. Breaking Into Encrypted Messaging Apps

Apps like WhatsApp, Signal, and Telegram use phone number verification. Scammers may:

This can be used to spy, scam, or spread misinformation using your identity.

8. Linking to Dark Web Profiles

Phone numbers are often leaked in data breaches. Scammers cross-reference yours with:

This gives them a clearer picture to execute spear phishing or identity theft. In some cases, leaked info is sold in dark web marketplaces.

9. Spoofing Official Calls

Your number can be spoofed by scammers to:

Example: A Canberra business owner found out her number was being used to spoof calls from a fake ATO debt collection agent.

How Telcos and Law Enforcement Are Responding

Telcos in Australia and the US have begun implementing stricter controls:

Meanwhile, law enforcement has increased international cooperation to trace and dismantle scam call operations.

Fact: In 2024, Australian Federal Police collaborated with the FBI to investigate SIM-swapping rings linked to stolen crypto.

Prevention Checklist

Use this list to protect your number:

How CypherGuard Helps Victims of Phone Scams

CypherGuard uses:

We move fast especially while scammers are still active.

Your phone number isn’t just a way to reach you it’s a digital key. In the wrong hands, it can unlock access to your money, identity, and privacy.

Scammers in 2025 are smarter, faster, and more organised. They rely on leaked data, automated tools, and social manipulation. But with awareness and action, you can stay one step ahead.

If you think your number has been misused or if you’re receiving strange messages or calls contact CypherGuard immediately. We can help trace, respond, and protect you from further harm.

Stay alert. Lock down your accounts. And never underestimate how much damage one number can do.

FAQ:

Q: Is it safe to share my phone number online?
A: Only if you trust the website. Avoid posting it publicly or giving it out unnecessarily.

Q: What should I do if someone used my number in a scam?
A: Contact your mobile provider, report the incident to Scamwatch or FTC, and notify CypherGuard.

Q: Can I change my number if it’s compromised?
A: Yes. Most telcos allow you to change your number if you’re being harassed or targeted.

Q: Are mobile numbers secure for 2FA?
A: Not entirely. Use an authenticator app where possible—SMS can be intercepted or spoofed.

Q: How do I check if my number has been leaked?
A: Use breach alert tools like HaveIBeenPwned.com.

Q: What if I clicked a suspicious SMS link?
A: Immediately run a malware scan, change your passwords, and notify your bank and CypherGuard.