Malta Police: Watch Out for Scam Calls Spoofing Local Numbers

Imagine this: Your phone rings, and the caller ID displays a number you recognize, perhaps from your local area code. You pick up, and a voice on the other end claims to be from a well-known local bank, or even the police themselves. They’ve noticed suspicious activity on your account, they say, and they need your help to secure it. What do you do?

This is the scenario Malta’s Police Force is warning residents about. Scammers, always on the prowl for new ways to deceive, have started spoofing local numbers to make their calls seem more legitimate. But don’t be fooled. The police have your back, and they’re here to help you stay safe.

Number spoofing is a practice where scammers manipulate caller ID to display a number or name that isn’t their own. It’s a tactic used to trick people into answering the phone, believing the call is from a trusted source. In Malta, scammers are now using this method to target locals, making their calls seem like they’re coming from right here on the island.

While it might seem convincing at first, there are several telltale signs that can help you spot a scam call:

• Unusual Timing: Scammers often call at odd hours, like late at night or early in the morning.


• Urgency: They’ll pressure you to act immediately, saying your account is at risk or that there’s an urgent issue that needs your attention.


• Personal Information: They’ll ask for sensitive information, like your PIN, password, or one-time passcodes. Remember, legitimate organizations will never ask for this information over the phone.


• Lack of Professionalism: Scammers often use poor grammar or make spelling mistakes. They might also be based overseas, so their accent might not match the number they’re spoofing.

If you’re unsure about a call, hang up and call the organization back using a number you trust, like the one on their official website. Never use the number provided by the caller.

If you’ve fallen victim to a scam, don’t panic. Here’s what you need to do:

• Contact Your Bank Immediately: If the scammer has tricked you into sharing your banking details, contact your bank immediately to report the incident and secure your account.


• Report the Scam: File a report with the Malta Police Force. They can be reached at 119 or through their website (policeforce.gov.mt).


• Spread Awareness: Warn your friends and family about the scam. The more people know, the harder it is for scammers to succeed.

Scams might be on the rise, but with vigilance and awareness, we can protect ourselves and our loved ones. Remember, if something seems too good to be true, or too urgent to be real, it probably is. Stay safe, and let’s keep Malta scam-free.

“We’re seeing an increase in scam calls using spoofed local numbers,” says Inspector Ian Abela of the Malta Police Force. “But with a little caution, we can all stay safe. If you’re unsure about a call, just hang up.”