What should I do if someone is using fake numbers to harass me and make threats?
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Regardless of your specific state, there are both federal and state-level protections available to you when facing harassment and threats from someone using fake phone numbers. What you’re experiencing—persistent anonymous threats, fear of false accusations, and concern for your safety and reputation—is serious and can be addressed through multiple legal avenues.
At the federal level, 47 U.S.C. § 223 of the Federal Communications Act makes it a crime to use a telephone or telecommunications device to harass, abuse, or threaten another person. This includes repeated calls, calls made without identifying oneself, and calls intended to intimidate or cause emotional distress.
If the threats cross state lines or involve interstate communication (which includes most phone and internet-based communications), additional federal statutes such as 18 U.S.C. § 875 (interstate threats) and 18 U.S.C. § 2261A (cyberstalking) may apply. These laws carry penalties including fines and imprisonment, and they empower federal agencies like the FBI to investigate when local enforcement is limited.
Even if the caller is using spoofed or fake numbers, law enforcement can work with phone carriers and subpoena records to trace the origin of the calls. While this process can take time, your continued documentation is critical. Keep a detailed log of every incident—dates, times, content of messages, screenshots, and any patterns you notice. This evidence not only supports your police reports but also strengthens your case if you seek a restraining order or civil remedy.
If you suspect who the person is but lack direct proof, you may still be able to seek a civil harassment restraining order in your state. Many states allow courts to issue protective orders based on a pattern of harassment, even if the identity of the harasser is not definitively proven at the outset. Courts can issue orders prohibiting contact, including indirect or anonymous communication, and violations of such orders can lead to arrest.
If the harassment continues, you may also have grounds for a civil lawsuit for intentional infliction of emotional distress, defamation (if false claims are made), or invasion of privacy.
Since the harasser knows where you work, it’s wise to keep your employer informed in writing. Ask them to document any suspicious calls or messages they receive and to notify you immediately. If false claims are made against you, having a record that you previously reported the harassment can help protect your reputation and job security.
You might also consider speaking with a lawyer who specializes in cyber harassment or privacy law to explore whether a cease-and-desist letter or further legal action is appropriate.
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Someone is harassing me and using fake phone numbers to make threats against me, and I don’t know how to move forward. I’ve made a couple of police reports, but I don’t know what else I can do. I’m worried this unknown person will make false claims against me legally or at my workplace because they know where I work.
I’m sorry to hear about the harassment you’re experiencing. Have you considered obtaining a restraining order against this individual?
I have, but because it’s fake numbers, it’s hard to prove that it’s the person I suspect.
Have you informed your employer about the situation to see if they can provide any support or guidance?
I did, but they are unsure of what they can do.
Is there anything else the employment lawyer should know before I connect you? Rest assured they’ll be able to help with the harassment issue.
Yes.
Good afternoon and welcome to AskALawyer. Please give me a moment to review your question.
Note that I am a hearing-impaired expert, so phone calls are difficult for me. Thank you for understanding.
Okay.
Regardless of your specific state, there are both federal and state-level protections available to you when facing harassment and threats from someone using fake phone numbers. What you’re experiencing—persistent anonymous threats, fear of false accusations, and concern for your safety and reputation—is serious and can be addressed through multiple legal avenues.
At the federal level, 47 U.S.C. § 223 of the Federal Communications Act makes it a crime to use a telephone or telecommunications device to harass, abuse, or threaten another person. This includes repeated calls, calls made without identifying oneself, and calls intended to intimidate or cause emotional distress.
If the threats cross state lines or involve interstate communication (which includes most phone and internet-based communications), additional federal statutes such as 18 U.S.C. § 875 (interstate threats) and 18 U.S.C. § 2261A (cyberstalking) may apply. These laws carry penalties including fines and imprisonment, and they empower federal agencies like the FBI to investigate when local enforcement is limited.
Even if the caller is using spoofed or fake numbers, law enforcement can work with phone carriers and subpoena records to trace the origin of the calls. While this process can take time, your continued documentation is critical. Keep a detailed log of every incident—dates, times, content of messages, screenshots, and any patterns you notice. This evidence not only supports your police reports but also strengthens your case if you seek a restraining order or civil remedy.
If you suspect who the person is but lack direct proof, you may still be able to seek a civil harassment restraining order in your state. Many states allow courts to issue protective orders based on a pattern of harassment, even if the identity of the harasser is not definitively proven at the outset. Courts can issue orders prohibiting contact, including indirect or anonymous communication, and violations of such orders can lead to arrest.
If the harassment continues, you may also have grounds for a civil lawsuit for intentional infliction of emotional distress, defamation (if false claims are made), or invasion of privacy.
Since the harasser knows where you work, it’s wise to keep your employer informed in writing. Ask them to document any suspicious calls or messages they receive and to notify you immediately. If false claims are made against you, having a record that you previously reported the harassment can help protect your reputation and job security.
You might also consider speaking with a lawyer who specializes in cyber harassment or privacy law to explore whether a cease-and-desist letter or further legal action is appropriate.
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