October 18, 2023
Honeypot Phone Numbers Collect Scam Data for AI to Analyze
Carriers and analytics engines are using robust technology to combat scam calls. However, high-tech solutions are not the only answer. There is a simple tactic that can feed data to AI and analytics engines in the fight against scam calls: honeypot phone numbers.
Before carriers assign phone numbers to consumers, they test them to ensure they do not receive large numbers of unsolicited calls. No one wants a new phone number that is a frequent target of spammers and scammers. “Dirty” numbers are taken out of rotation to improve customer satisfaction.
In recent years, the Telephone Science Corporation (TSC) has been buying these numbers to use as “honeypots” to stop scammers. Honeypot phone numbers are powerful weapons against illegitimate calls.
How Carriers Use Honeypot Phone Numbers
Carriers, analytics engines, and third parties use honeypot phone numbers to collect valuable data on scam calls and prevent them. This data, combined with other technologies, helps develop stronger security measures against scam calls. Honeypot data helps identify the latest trends in scam calls, enabling analytics engines and AI systems to efficiently detect threats before they reach consumers.
Companies like Hiya use these phone numbers to gather various types of information, such as:
- Current scam call campaigns and the number of calls they generate
- Scammer scripts and techniques
- The types and volume of calls used in scams
- Changes to popular scams, such as car warranty offers, IRS threats, student loan contacts, etc.
Honeypot numbers entice scammers and expose their illegal activity without any effective way for scammers to avoid these numbers.
Verizon’s Call Filter Reports Success with Honeypots
Verizon is another carrier that uses honeypots to fight scammers. Verizon’s Call Filter shares honeypot data with the Industry Traceback Group to prevent illegal calls from reaching consumers. This technology combines honeypots with other advanced tools to identify suspected scam calls and robocalls.
Verizon has successfully identified illegal robocall campaigns, allowing analysts to gather valuable insights into their unethical methods. So far, Call Filter has blocked over 20 billion robocalls, demonstrating how technology can minimize scam calls.
Ethical Dialing Habits are a Necessity
While analytics engines and carriers are adopting more robust technology to combat scam calls, the battle is far from over. Illegal operations still exist, and public trust in call campaigns is at an all-time low. According to a Pew Research study, 8 out of 10 consumers refuse to answer calls from unknown numbers. This decline in answer rates significantly impacts legitimate campaigns as well, reducing their profits.
That’s why legitimate businesses must remain vigilant and maintain ethical dialing standards. Engaging in ethical dialing strategies shows a commitment to protecting consumers. In this way, businesses can help rebuild trust with existing and prospective customers.
Compliance
It is crucial to follow all applicable rules for calling campaigns, staying up to date with federal, state, and industry-specific guidelines. Failure to comply with DNC (Do Not Call) and TCPA (Telephone Consumer Protection Act) regulations can result in blocked phone numbers and hefty fines, tarnishing your business’s reputation with consumers and carriers.
Lead List Integrity
Bad lead lists can have a negative impact on your company’s reputation. Ensure that your lists are scrubbed and up to date. Generate your own call lists or purchase them from trusted vendors, avoiding bargain lead lists. The last thing you need is agents dialing honeypots or DNC-registered phone numbers.
Ethical Scripts
The quality of your scripts speaks volumes about your company. They should be honest and straightforward, avoiding emotionally manipulative language. Don’t forget to provide consumers with an opt-out option to remove themselves from your dialing rotation.
Actively Monitor Your Caller ID
Maintaining an accurate caller ID requires vigilance. Monitor your phone numbers for flags using Caller ID Reputation’s services. Our Device Cloud service can display how your phone number appears in real-time across various networks. Device Cloud also provides fast flag detection, allowing you to address any issues immediately and minimize negative consequences.
Being proactive in protecting your company’s image is essential. By adhering to ethical dialing habits, you can maintain a positive dialing reputation and foster consumer trust in your organization.
Applying Ethics in Outbound Dialing
For years, consumers and legitimate businesses have suffered from call spammers and scammers, costing the industry significant amounts of money and consumer trust. However, these bad actors are now facing real consequences for their actions thanks to recent legislation and technological advancements. Honeypot phone numbers are providing valuable information in the fight against scam calls.
Although some illegitimate parties are still operating, staying proactive can minimize their impact on your company. By employing the highest ethical dialing practices and leveraging today’s advanced technology, you can protect your reputation and maintain high answer rates. At Caller ID Reputation, we offer the products and solutions you need to achieve these goals.
