Can a phone account be locked so that the number can't be ported out from Cox?

Although it was frustrating, it was a valuable lesson.  I forget the specific scam...possibly the 'Microsoft call'...but they duped my Mom and she paid.  I explained it to her, she got mad and now hangs up if she doesn't know what they're talking about.

As far as locking down an account, probably not.  If your Dad pays the bill and the scammer manufactures a "consent," what are the odds of going to court?  Preying?  Definitely...but they can't prey if your Dad just hangs up.