Call To Action On Caller ID “Spoofing”

Senator Regola introduces Senate Bill 460
to prohibit fraud in PA

Senator Bob Regola (R-39) announced today that he has introduced Senate Bill 460, legislation that would prohibit the use of false Caller ID information, a practice known as “spoofing,” by identity thieves and hucksters as a way to trick individuals into taking their calls. 

“Caller ID spoofing has emerged as a tool for identity thieves and scam artists.  These unscrupulous individuals will use false numbers and identification to make it appear that they are calling from another legitimate location,” said Sen. Regola.  “They know that most people will ignore their calls if they allow their correct information to be displayed on a Caller ID screen.” 

Sen. Regola said his legislation is in line with the General Assembly’s on-going efforts to address the misuse of technology to commit crimes such as ID theft and phishing.  

“Senior citizens are often the target of telemarketing fraud and other crimes that have evolved along with new technology,” Sen. Regola said.  “Caller ID is intended to give people a level of protection and privacy by letting them determine whether or not to take certain calls.  The hucksters out there know that and they look for ways to get around it.  That’s why we must close down the practice of spoofing and bring strong pressure to bear on those who try to scam the system.” 

SB 460 was referred to the Senate Consume Protection and Professional Licensure Committee for consideration. 

### 

Contact:  Nate Silcox    (717) 787-6063