For businesses that rely on cloud-based phone systems and toll-free numbers to support customers, communications fraud poses a costly and growing threat. One of the most harmful yet under-discussed scams is toll-free traffic pumping. This type of fraud targets your phone system to rack up charges you never agreed to.
Here’s how to spot it, and stop it before it drains your budget.
1. Understand the Scam: Know What You’re Up Against
Toll-free traffic pumping is a type of communications fraud that floods your toll-free numbers with artificially generated calls. Fraudsters use software to spoof different caller IDs and route these calls through multiple telecom carriers, triggering dip fees (per-call) and access charges (per-minute). You get stuck with the bill, while they collect a cut.
2. Watch for Strange Call Patterns
Common signs of toll-free traffic pumping include:
- A sharp increase in call volume, especially overnight or on weekends
- Multiple calls with similar, short durations
- Recordings featuring music, static, religious, or political content—sometimes just silence
These aren’t real customers. They’re manufactured calls designed to extract revenue from each interaction.
3. Use Your IVR as a First Line of Defense
Strengthen your cloud-based phone system security by adding a layer of verification to your Interactive Voice Response (IVR). Requiring callers to press a key (using DTMF tones) can block automated systems from connecting. It’s a simple but effective tactic to reduce spam traffic.
4. Limit Access by Area Code
If your customers are geographically concentrated, consider restricting which area codes your toll-free number can receive calls from. This keeps VoIP fraud protection for businesses localized and makes it harder for criminals to exploit your system from outside regions.
5. Monitor, Trace, and Report Suspicious Activity
Stay alert by reviewing your usage reports regularly. Look for surges in short-duration calls or anomalies in the Average Length of Call (ALOC) across similar numbers. Collaborate with your carrier to identify suspicious routing through tracebacks. If you suspect fraud, report incidents promptly to your provider.
6. Choose a Provider That Prioritizes Fraud Prevention
Not all telecom providers are created equal. Work with a partner providing ongoing telecom fraud detection solutions and support. A proactive provider like Carolina Digital Phone helps small businesses stay ahead of evolving threats and avoid falling victim to business toll-free number scams.
Stay Secure, Stay Informed
Toll-free numbers should enhance your business, not expose it to fraud. By adopting smart practices and partnering with a reliable VoIP provider, you can reduce risks, protect your budget, and ensure smooth communication.
Our team of professionals is here to answer any questions you have about securing your business telephone system. If you’re considering upgrading or replacing your phone system, please call Carolina Digital Phone for a complimentary consultation at (336) 544-4000.