How to spot scam calls
Guide reference: HG-0009
Quote this reference if you contact us about this guide.
Approx. 3 min read
Recognise common phone scams and what to do. Never give online passwords, bank details, or remote access to an unexpected caller.
Don't worry if a call has shaken you. Scam callers try to trick people into giving money or personal details, and you are not alone in receiving them.
Quick answer
Never give online passwords, bank details, or remote access to an unexpected caller. Hang up and call back using a number you find yourself.
More detail
Scammers may claim to be your bank, the police, HMRC, or a phone company. Real organisations rarely ask for passwords or payment on an unexpected call.
Simple Telecoms does not and will not give out your personal information, including your phone number. If someone knew your name or number, that does not prove the call was from us.
Scammers use many methods, including computer programs that test number combinations to find working lines and numbers that get answered.
They often create urgency or fear to stop you thinking clearly. Caller display can be faked, so a familiar-looking number is not proof the call is genuine.
If a call has upset you, talk to someone you trust. You can report suspicious calls and register with the Telephone Preference Service to cut marketing calls.
How to stay safe
If you do not recognise the number, let it ring or send it to voicemail.
Never give online shop or billing passwords, PINs, bank details, or remote access to your computer.
Hang up if someone pressures you to act quickly or keep the call secret.
Call back using a number from your bank card or official website, not one the caller gives you.
Register free with the Telephone Preference Service to reduce marketing calls.
Tell us if a caller claimed to be Simple Telecoms and seemed suspicious.
Common mistakes
- Trusting caller display as proof a call is from your bank.
- Staying on the line because the caller sounds official or friendly.
- Sharing online shop or billing passwords because someone says your line will be cut off.
- Changing your phone number hoping scam calls will stop, when scammers often find new working numbers automatically.
Things to know
- See Dealing with nuisance calls and How to handle cold callers for unwanted sales calls.
- See Caller display and staying safe for how display can be misused, including fake 999 numbers.
- Changing number rarely stops scam calls. Scammers use automated dialling to find working numbers.
- Talk to a family member if a call has worried you.
Frequently asked questions
What if they knew my name?
Scammers use lists. Knowing your name does not mean the call is genuine.
Did Simple Telecoms sell my number?
No. We do not give out your personal information.
Should I press a number to stop calls?
No. That can confirm your number is active. Hang up instead.
Should I change my phone number?
Usually not. Scammers use automated systems to find working numbers, so a new number can still be called. Focus on hanging up, not sharing details, and screening calls instead.
How else can I reduce scam calls?
Register with TPS, use careful habits, and See Dealing with nuisance calls for a nuisance call blocker device option.