The Latest Form of Deception: "Spoofing"

Technology often helps us catch liars and cheaters because there's an electronic stamp for virtually everything we do, whether it be emails, text messages, or swipe-in times at work or the gym. Unfortunately, technology also helps the liars and cheaters succeed. Indeed, one of the newer techniques in that regard is "spoofing," which is the act of disguising one's identity on caller id or email by misrepresenting the caller or sender as someone else. For example, if I want you to think I'm at work, I'll call you from my mobile phone while on the other side of town but spoof the number so it looks like I'm at work. Spoofing can also be used by stalkers to harass victims by falsely enticing them to answer calls and open emails that they would otherwise avoid.

Spoofing "apps" on phones can also be used to disguise voices.

Although the law cannot always keep up with the technology, there is a federal anti-spoofing law entitled The Truth in Caller ID Act, which was signed into law in December 2010. The Act prohibits masquerading the identity of the caller for the purpose of defrauding, causing harm, or wrongfully obtaining anything of value.

What's the lesson here? First, do not engage in spoofing. Second, be careful. Don't give personal information to a stranger that calls you regardless of whether the caller id indicates the call is from a reputable source. Finally, if you suspect your spouse is cheating, don't rule out the possibility that they may be spoofing to cover it up their actual whereabouts.

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