How do scammers use duplicate numbers (visual spoofing)?

Scammers may create phone numbers, contact names, or profiles that closely resemble legitimate banks, government agencies, or people you know. This is a form of spoofing designed to make you trust the caller.

Common tactics include:

Using similar letters or symbols in names and messages.
Changing one or two digits of a familiar phone number.
Adding spaces, punctuation, or extra digits to bypass filters.
Creating messenger profiles with official logos and company names.
Using Caller ID spoofing to display a legitimate organization’s number.

How to stay safe:

Do not trust a familiar name, logo, or number alone.
Compare the number with the organization’s official contact details.
If you are unsure, end the call and contact the organization using a number you find independently.
Never share SMS verification codes, PINs, passwords, or card details.
Do not install apps at a caller’s request.

Be especially cautious if the caller claims there is suspicious activity, demands an urgent payment, asks for a verification code, or pressures you to stay on the line.

Even if the displayed number exactly matches an official number, it may still be spoofed. If you encounter a lookalike number or suspected spoofing, report it on Xolvie to warn others and help expose fraudulent schemes.