A phone isn't actually being used.

A computer is robocalls are made using what's called voice over Internet Protocol or VoIP.

For short.

It's the same technology used in popular APS like FaceTime and Skype.

And it's important because no international phone bill means robocalls are incredibly cheap and easy to make.

And while the computer generates a random number to call, it's also generating a false number to show up on your caller I d.

Disguising its identity.

Ah, process called spoofing.

And with neighbor spoofing the number on your caller, I D is meant to look almost identical to yours to increase the likelihood that you pick up.

But if you call that number back, your local pizza shop might answer instead because these computers are often spoofing with riel phone numbers.

Now, according to the FCC, your best bet is to not answer calls from unknown numbers in the first place.

Since answering a robocall lets the computer No, you might engage in that case, get ready for even more robo calls.

Now that you're on the hot list, you'll also be prompted to connect with an actual person who will either try to sell you a product or worse yet, trick you into a scam to inform you that the I.

R s is filing lawsuit against you Now in the United States, the majority of these calls are illegal under the Telephone Consumer Protection Act.

But because robo calls can originate from anywhere in the world, it's extremely difficult to enforce the law, though heavy fines have been slapped on robo callers in the past.

In the meantime, phone companies are working on systems that more effectively identify and block illegal robocalls.

But for now, robo callers will likely keep on calling you.