Called mom, another number showed on her phone. When we call THAT number, it’s a guy in Malta.

Understanding Unusual Phone Number Behavior: A Personal Encounter

In today’s interconnected world, mobile phones have become our primary communication tools, providing seamless connectivity across borders. However, sometimes unexpected anomalies occur that can raise questions and cause concern. Recently, I encountered such a situation involving my mother’s phone, which prompted me to investigate the possible causes behind this unusual experience.

The Incident

While communicating with my mother from abroad—our locations separated by an ocean— I used my standard mobile number, which is operational in Curaçao. During our conversation, her phone unexpectedly displayed an incoming call from a different number, beginning with the country code +3, which, upon dialing, was identified as a Malta-based number.

Intriguingly, when she answered the call, the connection was clear, and it was indeed me. Later, when I dialed her number again, the usual caller ID appeared. Subsequently, attempts to call the Malta number yielded a response from a man in Malta, which felt unsettling, although I refrained from engaging further.

Context and Background

I have previously traveled to Malta, roughly a year ago, and during that trip, I left my phone unattended on occasions in accommodations and cafes. This history, combined with the recent occurrence, led me to explore potential explanations for this electronic anomaly.

Possible Causes and Explanations

Several mechanisms could potentially explain the appearance of an unknown number, especially one located in Malta, on my mother’s phone:

1. Caller ID Spoofing:
   Cybercriminals or malicious actors can manipulate caller ID information, making it appear as though calls originate from a different number or location. Spoofing is often used in scams or for malicious purposes and could explain why an unfamiliar Maltese number appeared.

2. Third-Party Apps or Services:
   Some communication platforms or call forwarding services can route calls through virtual numbers or display different caller IDs. If either party has installed third-party apps or services, it’s worth exploring their settings.

3. Compromised or Reused Phone Numbers:
   Given my previous visit to Malta, there’s a possibility—though less likely—that a number associated with my activities or a shared network was misused or reassigned, leading to confusion.

4. Malware or Device Intrusion:
   While less common, malware on a device can intercept or reroute calls or manipulate caller IDs. Ensuring devices are secure and updated is essential.

5. Technical Glitches or Network Errors: