Spam calls and messages are a growing concern in the UK, with many people experiencing disruptions to their daily lives due to unsolicited calls. These calls can range from automated telemarketing pitches to more dangerous scams that seek to steal personal information. Identifying these numbers and understanding the nature of the calls can help you avoid falling victim to scams or nuisances. This article will explore some of the most reported spam phone numbers in the UK for 2025, providing insights into their origins and how you can protect yourself.
What Is Spam Calling?
Spam calls are unsolicited phone calls that are often automated and used for marketing or fraudulent purposes. In many cases, these calls are intended to sell products or services, but they can also be scams aimed at stealing personal information or money. The rise of robocalling, where automated systems place calls to a large number of people, has made it easier for spammers to target individuals.
The impact of spam calls on UK residents is significant. According to recent reports, millions of spam calls are made every day, many of which go unanswered or are blocked by mobile carriers. Despite this, spam callers continue to innovate, using techniques like spoofing caller IDs to make their numbers look legitimate.
Top Reported Spam Phone Numbers in the UK (2025)
Let’s take a closer look at some of the most commonly reported spam phone numbers in the UK, based on data from various reporting platforms, including WhoCalledMe, TrueCaller, and local forums.
| Phone Number | Reported For | Frequency of Reports | Location |
| 1738408739 | Silent calls, telemarketing | High | International |
| 1977788417 | PPI claims, scam calls | High | United Kingdom |
| 1274041023 | Robocalls, scams | Moderate | United Kingdom |
| 1792722617 | Fraud, unsolicited sales | High | United Kingdom |
| 1618201220 | Debt collection scams | High | United Kingdom |
| 3316309046 | Fraud, insurance scams | Moderate | International |
| 1918239030 | Silent calls, nuisance calls | Moderate | United Kingdom |
| 1388224992 | PPI claims, unsolicited offers | High | United Kingdom |
| 1204935816 | Automated surveys, scams | Moderate | United Kingdom |
| 1438382070 | Fraud, prize scams | High | International |
1. 1738408739 – Silent Calls, Telemarketing
This number is frequently reported for silent calls, which occur when the caller disconnects the call immediately after it is answered. Often linked to telemarketing companies, this number has been flagged due to its disruptive nature, leaving individuals wondering about its intent. Some reports suggest that the number is used by firms conducting market research or sales calls.
What to Do: If you receive a call from this number, avoid engaging. The best practice is to block the number if it becomes a recurring issue.
2. 1977788417 – PPI Claims, Scam Calls
Known for its frequent use in Payment Protection Insurance (PPI) claim offers, this number has been flagged by many users who report receiving unsolicited calls about claims they never made. These calls often lead to scammers asking for sensitive personal details, making this number one to watch.
What to Do: Report the number to Ofcom if you’re repeatedly contacted. Additionally, it’s a good idea to be cautious with any PPI-related offers, as many of them are scams.
3. 1274041023 – Robocalls, Scams
This number is commonly associated with robocalls, which are automated pre-recorded messages that often provide false or misleading information. It has been reported for being involved in a variety of scams, from fake charity donations to fraudulent debt relief offers.
What to Do: Hang up immediately if you receive an automated message from this number. You can also register your number with the Telephone Preference Service (TPS) to reduce such calls.
4. 1792722617 – Fraud, Unsolicited Sales
Reports suggest that this number is used for aggressive sales tactics, often involving fraudulent services or products. The calls are typically unsolicited, with offers for things like insurance or loan services. Many recipients have described feeling pressured or misled into providing personal information.
What to Do: Block this number and report it to WhoCalledMe or your mobile service provider. Always be wary of unsolicited sales offers, especially if the company is not easily recognizable.
5. 1618201220 – Debt Collection Scams
This phone number is linked to scam calls pretending to be debt collection agencies. Scammers often use fear tactics to pressure victims into paying for non-existent debts. These calls are designed to cause panic, leading people to make payments or disclose personal financial details.
What to Do: If you receive such a call, do not provide any personal details. Contact your legitimate debt management company or financial institution directly to verify the situation.
6. 3316309046 – Fraud, Insurance Scams
Reported frequently for being involved in fraudulent insurance-related schemes, this number has been flagged for offering fake insurance products. Scammers using this number may promise lower rates or guaranteed coverage in exchange for upfront payments or sensitive personal information.
What to Do: Always verify the legitimacy of any insurance offers before providing payment or personal details. Consider using reputable comparison websites to check for genuine insurance options.
7. 1918239030 – Silent Calls, Nuisance Calls
This number has been marked as a nuisance caller, with reports mostly centered around it being used for silent calls or calls that hang up quickly. While not as aggressive as some of the other numbers, it is still a source of irritation for many.
What to Do: Block this number and report it as a nuisance call. If you’re receiving repeated silent calls, you may want to consider enabling call blocking features on your phone.
8. 1388224992 – PPI Claims, Unsolicited Offers
This number is often associated with unsolicited PPI claims, where individuals are contacted about non-existent PPI refunds. Scammers frequently use such numbers to extract financial information under the guise of helping consumers reclaim money they may not be owed.
What to Do: Do not engage with the caller. Hang up immediately and consider reporting the number to the ICO or Ofcom. Additionally, checking your PPI status through legitimate channels is advisable if you’re concerned.
9. 1204935816 – Automated Surveys, Scams
This number is used for automated surveys that often lead to scams. These surveys may ask for sensitive personal information or lead to further fraudulent calls. They may also promise fake prizes to entice people into providing their details.
What to Do: Avoid answering calls from this number. If you do answer, hang up immediately if an automated survey begins. You can also report this number to relevant authorities if it persists.
10. 1438382070 – Fraud, Prize Scams
Known for its involvement in prize scams, this number often calls individuals with the promise of a large prize or cash reward. In reality, the caller is likely trying to obtain payment for “delivery fees” or coaxing individuals into a scam.
What to Do: Never provide any payment details over the phone for supposed prizes. Report the number to both your phone service provider and organizations like WhoCalledMe.
How to Protect Yourself from Spam Calls
- Use Call Blocking Apps: There are many apps available to block spam calls, such as TrueCaller or Hiya, which can identify and block known spam numbers.
- Register with the Telephone Preference Service (TPS): Registering your number with the TPS can help reduce unsolicited marketing calls. The service is free and legally restricts unsolicited calls from UK-based marketers.
- Never Give Out Personal Information: Avoid providing personal information such as your bank account number, address, or social security number to unknown callers.
- Check Callers’ Identity: If you receive a call from a number you don’t recognize, try to verify its legitimacy before taking further action. Look up the number online or contact the company directly through official channels.
- Report Suspicious Numbers: If you receive a suspicious call, report it to organizations like WhoCalledMe, Ofcom, or the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO). This can help prevent future calls for other individuals.
Conclusion
Spam calls continue to plague UK residents, with new numbers cropping up every day. However, being informed and aware of these numbers can significantly reduce the chances of falling victim to scams or nuisance calls. Remember to block and report any suspicious numbers, use call-blocking apps, and never give out personal details over the phone. If in doubt, always verify the identity of the caller, and report any fraudulent activity to the proper authorities to help protect others.
