By Wayne Weiner, D.Ed.
Each day, like clockwork, I receive at least two calls from unknown numbers. Sometimes it’s a woman named “Rachel” from “card services.” Sometimes it’s a robotic voice warning me that my Social Security number has been “suspended” (which, thankfully, is not a thing). Eventually, I got tired of playing “who’s scamming Wayne today,” so now I just block the calls. But the real question is—how do these people get my number in the first place?
Turns out, it’s easier than finding a bad cup of coffee in a gas station.
How Do Scammers Get Your Number?
- Data Breaches
Major companies, small online stores, even reward apps—we’ve all signed up for something. Unfortunately, when that company gets hacked, your info gets tossed onto the digital black market. Your phone number becomes just another data point for scammers to scoop up. - Public Records and Online Profiles
If your number is listed on a resume, a business page, social media profile, or even a donation form—congrats! You’ve basically gift-wrapped it for scammers. Some websites scrape public data like a teenager hoarding snacks. - Phone Number Generators
Scammers don’t even need your number. They use auto-dialers that generate number combinations, calling thousands until someone bites. It’s like fishing with TNT—inefficient but effective. - Shady Third-Party Apps
Ever download a free flashlight app that asked for your contact list? Yep. Some of those freebies come with a price: your privacy. That one quiz you took to find out your “spirit sandwich” may have also sold your number to a telemarketer in Belarus. - You Gave It to Them Without Knowing
Entering a contest? Signing up for “free” rewards? Filling out a survey? Those delightful “opt-in” checkboxes are often pre-checked and come with strings longer than a CVS receipt.
What the Experts Say
Cybersecurity experts recommend these simple (but powerful) steps:
Don’t answer unknown calls. If it’s real, they’ll leave a message. If it’s Rachel from card services again—bye, Felicia.
Block and report. Use your phone’s built-in blocking tools. Report scams to the FTC or your carrier.
Use a spam filter app. Services like RoboKiller or Hiya act like bodyguards for your phone.
Never say “yes” to a stranger. Scammers record your voice and may use your “yes” to authorize charges.
Limit online exposure. Don’t post your number online unless absolutely necessary.
My System? Block and Laugh
Now, when I get a scam call, I no longer waste time threatening to report them to a made-up federal agency (yes, I’ve done this). I just block the number and move on with my day. And when the next one comes in, I say a quiet thank-you that I still have enough sense to not give my bank information to “Officer John from the IRS.”
Wayne Weiner, D.Ed. is an author, philosopher, and worldwide consultant known for his innovative coaching actions. He can be contacted at wweiner20@gmail.com. Visit his blog at https://drweinerinsights.com for more insights on surviving scammers, bosses, and bureaucracy—with humor intact.
Funny Disclaimer:
No actual scammers were harmed during the writing of this article—though I sincerely hope they all get stuck behind a slow driver in the left lane for eternity.
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