Ofcom has issued a warning to consumers about two common phone scam formats currently gaining more traction. Firstly, automated calls claiming to have a job offer, and secondly, calls from unknown numbers that hang up after a few rings. Both are designed to prompt the recipient to call back, at which point criminals attempt to extract personal information, pressure victims into making payments, or run up charges through premium-rate numbers.
The regulator noted that the number of people reporting suspicious calls has fallen over the past four years, and pointed to ongoing enforcement activity as part of its wider programme to tackle phone scams, including four active investigations into telecoms providers. In their release, Ofcom stressed that they’re taking the issue seriously, pointing to their measures to prevent spoofing of UK landline numbers..
The issue came up in CCUK’s response to the Home Office’s consultation on anonymous access to numbers (see the Consultation section below.) Ofcom's advice is to hang up, never share personal details, and report all suspicious calls to the free 7726 text reporting service.