Scam callers are a persistent issue in the UK, with fraudsters frequently changing tactics and phone numbers to deceive individuals. While pinpointing the single most reported scam number is challenging due to the dynamic nature of these schemes, certain types of scams and specific number ranges are commonly associated with fraudulent activities.
Common Scam Call Types and Associated Numbers:
- HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) Impersonation Scams:
- Description: Scammers pose as HMRC officials, claiming you owe taxes or are due a tax rebate, aiming to extract personal and financial information.
- Example Numbers: Fraudsters often use numbers that appear official or mimic HMRC’s contact numbers. They may also use withheld or untraceable numbers.
- Bank Impersonation Scams:
- Description: Callers pretend to be from your bank, warning of suspicious activity and requesting sensitive information to “secure” your account.
- Example Numbers: Scammers may spoof legitimate bank contact numbers or use numbers starting with 084 or 087, which can incur high charges.
- Missed Call Scams (Wangiri):
- Description: You receive a missed call from an unknown international or unusual number. Returning the call connects you to a premium-rate service, leading to hefty charges.
- Example Numbers: International numbers or those starting with 070, which resemble UK mobile numbers but can be costly.
- Technical Support Scams:
- Description: Callers claim to be from tech companies like Microsoft, stating your computer has a virus and offering “support” for a fee.
- Example Numbers: Often displayed as UK landline numbers, but can also be international.
Notable Scam Number Ranges:
- 070 Numbers: These are personal numbers that can be forwarded to any destination. They are often used in scams due to high call costs, misleading individuals into thinking they are standard mobile numbers.
- 084 and 087 Numbers: Typically used for services, but scammers exploit them to charge high fees. Ofcom has identified these ranges as commonly associated with fraudulent activities. In Your Area
Protective Measures:
- Register with the Telephone Preference Service (TPS): This free service allows you to opt out of unsolicited sales or marketing calls.
- Report Suspicious Calls: Forward scam texts to 7726 (spells “SPAM” on a keypad) to report them to your mobile provider. For scam calls, report to Action Fraud at 0300 123 2040 or via their website. OfcomAction Fraud
- Exercise Caution: Be skeptical of unsolicited calls requesting personal or financial information. Legitimate organizations typically do not ask for sensitive details over the phone.
Therefore, staying informed about common scam tactics and reporting suspicious activities can help protect yourself and others from falling victim to these fraudulent schemes.
Here’s a comprehensive list of commonly reported scam caller numbers and what they pretend to be. And these numbers are examples based on frequent reports and should be avoided if you encounter them:
List of Scam Callers Numbers and Their Claims
HMRC Scam Callers:
- 020 3129 6001 – Claims you owe unpaid taxes and threatens legal action.
- 0300 200 3300 – Spoofed number pretending to be HMRC offering tax refunds or demanding payment to avoid arrest.
Bank Impersonation Scam Callers:
- 0345 850 0198 – Fraudsters pretending to be from Lloyds Bank, warning of unauthorized transactions.
- 0333 200 1154 – Posing as NatWest fraud team, asking for account details or transfer of funds to a “safe account.”
Car Accident Claims Scam Callers:
- 0161 814 9210 – Falsely claims you’ve been involved in an accident and offers compensation services.
- 020 3476 5166 – Persistent cold calls about non-existent accidents.
Energy Price Scam Callers:
- 0113 320 2042 – Pretends to offer cheaper energy deals but demands an upfront payment.
- 0800 056 7827 – Claims to be from “British Gas” or “Energy Helpline” offering discounted energy rates.
Technical Support Scam Callers:
- 0800 048 8810 – Posing as Microsoft or BT Technical Support, claiming your device is infected with malware.
- 020 7946 0321 – Pretends to be Amazon customer service, alleging issues with your account or orders.
Missed Call/Wangiri Scams:
- 070 5350 1234 – Triggers a missed call hoping you’ll return it, leading to high charges.
- +44 7796 444123 – Appears as a mobile number but connects to a premium-rate service.
Lottery/Prize Scams:
- 0800 048 8787 – Claims you’ve won a lottery or prize but requires upfront payment or bank details.
- 020 3868 7244 – Pretends to be from a sweepstakes company offering bogus rewards.
Parcel Delivery Scams:
- 0800 123 456 – Claims to be from Royal Mail asking for payment to release a package.
- 020 3897 6432 – Poses as DPD requesting payment or personal details for a missed delivery.
What to Do If You Receive a Scam Call
- Don’t Engage: Hang up immediately without sharing any personal or financial details.
- Block the Number: Use your phone’s blocking feature to prevent further calls.
- Report the Call: Forward scam texts to 7726 or report calls to Action Fraud at 0300 123 2040.
- Verify the Source: If unsure, contact the organization directly using their official contact details from their website.
Staying informed about these numbers and tactics can help protect you from falling victim to scams. Share this information with friends and family to increase awareness! Keep visiting White Pages Hull for scam information
