Spam and scam calls have become a persistent nuisance for phone users across the UK. As we step into 2025, certain phone numbers have emerged as the most reported for suspicious or unwanted behavior. These numbers can range from aggressive telemarketers to outright scammers attempting to steal personal information or money. In this article, we’ll explore the top reported spam phone numbers in the UK, providing details about each one to help you stay informed and protected.
Why Spam Calls Are a Growing Problem
Spam calls are not just annoying – they can be a serious threat to your privacy and financial security. Scammers use these calls to trick individuals into revealing sensitive information, making costly financial mistakes, or even falling victim to identity theft. While the UK has robust regulations, such as the Telephone Preference Service (TPS) and the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) enforcement, spam calls remain a persistent issue.
Common Tactics Used by Spam Callers
- Automated robocalls with pre-recorded messages.
- Fake tax or government agency notifications.
- Tech support scams pretending to be from Microsoft or Apple.
- Prize and lottery scams requiring upfront payments.
- Threatening legal action to pressure quick responses.
Top 10 Most Reported Spam Phone Numbers in the UK (2025)
| Phone Number | Type of Scam | Common Complaints | Known Locations |
| 1234247239 | Financial Scams | Aggressive sales, fake investments | London, Manchester |
| 1388436857 | Tech Support Scam | Fake computer virus alerts | Birmingham, Liverpool |
| 3316309077 | HMRC Tax Scam | Threats of legal action | Nationwide |
| 3301240410 | Insurance Fraud | Fake accident claims | Glasgow, Edinburgh |
| 1708956207 | Prize Scam | Fake lottery and prize winnings | Cardiff, Swansea |
| 1204565865 | Banking Scam | Phishing for bank details | Bristol, Bath |
| 2080444031 | Debt Collection Scam | Fake debt threats | London, Leeds |
| 1656337649 | Robocall | Repeated, automated calls | Multiple locations |
| 1218241090 | Survey Scam | Fake surveys for personal data | Newcastle, Durham |
| 3316307811 | Tech Support Scam | Pretending to be Microsoft | Nationwide |
Detailed Look at Each Number
1234247239 – Financial Scams
This number has been reported for aggressive financial scams, often targeting individuals with promises of high returns on fake investments. The callers use high-pressure tactics to extract personal and financial information. Many reports suggest these calls originate from major cities like London and Manchester.
1388436857 – Tech Support Scam
Commonly associated with fake virus alerts, this number is known for attempting to scare victims into paying for unnecessary software or services. The scammers often claim to be from well-known tech companies and insist on immediate action to prevent data loss.
3316309077 – HMRC Tax Scam
This number is linked to fake tax collection scams, where callers threaten legal action for unpaid taxes. They often use official-sounding language to pressure victims into paying quickly, sometimes demanding payment through untraceable methods like cryptocurrency or gift cards.
3301240410 – Insurance Fraud
Callers using this number frequently target individuals with fake accident claims, asking for sensitive information to process non-existent insurance payouts. Reports suggest a high concentration of calls in Scotland.
1708956207 – Prize Scam
This number has been associated with fake prize or lottery scams, where the caller claims you’ve won a significant sum but need to pay a processing fee to claim it. Victims report being caught off guard by professional-sounding callers.
1204565865 – Banking Scam
Scammers from this number often impersonate banks, attempting to trick recipients into sharing their account details or transferring funds to a ‘secure’ account. These calls can be highly convincing, often using partial account details to appear legitimate.
2080444031 – Debt Collection Scam
Reports indicate this number is used for fake debt collection attempts, threatening legal consequences if supposed unpaid debts aren’t settled immediately. The calls are often aggressive and demanding.
1656337649 – Robocall
This number is known for repeated, automated calls that are both annoying and potentially dangerous if they reach vulnerable individuals. Many recipients report being bombarded with these calls daily.
1218241090 – Survey Scam
This number is linked to fake surveys designed to harvest personal information under the guise of market research. These calls often start harmlessly but quickly pivot to more invasive questioning.
3316307811 – Tech Support Scam
Similar to 1388436857, this number is used for fake tech support scams, often claiming to be from major tech companies. The callers use fear tactics to push victims into costly, unnecessary software purchases.
How to Protect Yourself from Spam Calls
- Use call-blocking apps like TrueCaller or WhoCalledMe.
- Register with the Telephone Preference Service (TPS) to reduce unwanted calls.
- Never share personal information over the phone unless you are certain of the caller’s identity.
- Report suspicious numbers to the ICO or Ofcom for further action.
- Stay updated on the latest scam trends and tactics.
Final Thoughts
While it’s impossible to stop every spam call, staying informed and cautious can significantly reduce your risk. Always verify unknown numbers before answering, use call-blocking tools, and report suspicious activity. By working together, we can help reduce the impact of spam calls in the UK.
FAQs
- How do I block spam calls on my phone?
- Can I report a spam number to the police?
- How can I check if a phone number is legitimate?
- What is the Telephone Preference Service (TPS)?
- Are all unknown numbers considered spam?
