Why do local numbers keep calling me?
The trick
Robocall systems set their outbound caller ID to match your area code and often your prefix — a technique called neighbor spoofing. A call from 'your' prefix looks like a school, a pharmacy, a neighbor, so pickup rates are far higher than for out-of-state numbers.
Why it's possible
Caller ID is asserted by the originating system, not verified end-to-end (STIR/SHAKEN is closing this gap on IP networks). Since every US prefix is public data, a dialer can synthesize plausible local numbers for any target — including numbers that belong to real people, who then receive angry callbacks.
What to do
Silence unknown callers, let voicemail filter them, and report repeat offenders. If your own number is being used as a spoofed display and you receive callbacks from strangers, the FCC's guidance is to explain your number was spoofed and that spoofing campaigns rotate numbers within days.
Sources
FAQ
A missed call from my own number — what was that?
Self-spoofing, a robocall variant meant to spark curiosity callbacks. Real calls from your own number do not happen; block and report.