Senate Committee Approves Anti-Caller ID Spoofing Act

Legislation to crack down on caller ID spoofing is one step closer to becoming law after winning approval by the Senate Judiciary Committee on Tuesday. Sen. James A. Williamson is the author of Senate Bill 712, which would create the “Anti-Caller ID Spoofing Act.” Williamson said criminals are using this technology to commit identity theft and other kinds of fraud.

“This is a growing problem, but right now, there’s nothing in our statutes that specifically addresses this scam,” said Williamson, R-Tulsa. “My bill would make it a misdemeanor with up to a year in jail, or a fine of up to $10,000, or both.”

Websites advertise caller ID spoofing services that individuals can purchase online, or through a 1-800 number. When the subscriber calls someone, he can make it look as though the call is originating from another location, including a bank or doctor’s office. The service also makes it possible to disguise the caller’s voice to make the person sound like someone of the opposite sex.

“In my district, I’m particularly concerned about older citizens who are too often preyed upon by identity thieves and other criminals,” Williamson said. “Some of the websites selling caller ID spoofing claim it’s for entertainment, but we know this has been used for credit card fraud, avoiding do-not-call laws and harassing victims. It needs to be illegal.”

Williamson’s legislation now moves to the full Senate for further consideration.