Top Scam Numbers in UK to Watch (2025)

Introduction

Spam phone calls have become an unfortunate part of everyday life in the UK. With scams getting more sophisticated, many citizens find themselves receiving unsolicited calls from unknown or suspicious numbers. These calls often aim to trick recipients into revealing personal data, transferring money, or subscribing to unwanted services. In 2025, the trend has not slowed down, with several numbers being frequently reported across the UK for spam or scam activity.

In this comprehensive report, we highlight the top reported spam phone numbers in the UK for 2025, explain the nature of each, and share essential advice on how to stay protected. Whether you’re tired of nuisance calls or want to be aware of potential scams, this article offers you a well-researched and user-friendly overview.

Table of Top Reported Spam Phone Numbers (UK – 2025)

Phone Number	Type of Spam	Common Tactic	Reported From
0333 303 5419	Bank/Financial Scam	Claims to be from bank fraud team	England & Wales
0161 531 7256	HMRC Scam	Threatens legal action over unpaid taxes	Manchester Area
020 3930 1824	Tech Support Scam	Pretends to be Microsoft or BT support	Greater London
0161 526 3553	Investment Scam	Promises high return crypto investments	Northern England
01792 722 689	Insurance/Accident Scam	Refers to a “recent car accident”	Swansea, South Wales
020 4587 6705	Phishing Attempt	Asks for banking or ID details	London Area
01273 036 584	Silent/Nuisance Call	Calls repeatedly and stays silent	Brighton Area
0330 124 0997	Energy Provider Scam	Pretends to switch you to cheaper tariffs	Nationwide
01413 109 863	Loan/Debt Collection Scam	Threatens legal action for unpaid loans	Glasgow Area
020 3896 0345	Lottery/Winner Scam	Claims you won a prize, asks for fees	London

0333 303 5419 – The Fake Bank Fraud Alert

This number has been one of the most frequently reported in 2025. Callers impersonate bank fraud departments and claim there is suspicious activity on your account. Victims are then guided to “secure” their funds by transferring money to a “safe account” — which is actually under scammer control.

Warning Signs:

Urgency to act quickly.
Asking for online banking details.
Requests to download remote access software.

0161 531 7256 – HMRC Impersonation Threat

Scammers using this Manchester-based number often pretend to be from HMRC, stating that the recipient owes back taxes and will face arrest if they don’t pay immediately. The intimidation factor is strong, especially for vulnerable individuals and immigrants.

How They Scam:

Recorded or live calls.
Threats of arrest or legal action.
Demands for immediate payment via bank or gift cards.

020 3930 1824 – Microsoft/BT Tech Support Scam

This number has been linked to tech support frauds. Callers claim there’s a virus or breach in your system and convince users to install malware disguised as support tools. This is a common social engineering attack aimed at remote access theft.

Tactics Used:

Claiming your computer is sending error messages.
Requesting remote desktop access.
Installing ransomware or stealing files.

0161 526 3553 – Crypto Investment Fraud

Scammers from this number typically lure victims with opportunities to invest in cryptocurrencies or forex markets with “guaranteed profits”. These are high-pressure sales calls disguised as investment opportunities.

Typical Lies:

“Earn £10,000 a month with minimal effort.”
“Limited slots available for elite members.”
Fake testimonials and websites to look trustworthy.

01792 722 689 – Insurance & Accident Scam

Known as the “you were in a car accident” scam, this number frequently targets individuals who may have been in minor road incidents or even none at all. The goal is to coax people into filing false claims or buying bogus insurance packages.

Common Phrases:

“Our system shows you had a recent accident.”
“You’re eligible for compensation.”
Attempts to extract your personal injury details.

020 4587 6705 – Phishing Scam for ID Theft

This London number has been reported as part of a phishing campaign. Scammers aim to collect your banking details, National Insurance number, or government ID information under various pretexts like loan approvals or account verification.

Red Flags:

Asking for full name, address, and NI number.
Referring to fake loans or grants.
Claiming your identity was used in fraud.

01273 036 584 – Silent Nuisance Caller

While not always fraudulent, repeated silent calls can be disturbing and are often used by call center bots testing active numbers for future scams.

Characteristics:

No voice or background sound.
Hangs up when answered.
Calls at odd hours.

0330 124 0997 – Fake Energy Tariff Switch

This number poses as an energy supplier and attempts to trick homeowners into switching utility providers under false pretenses. Callers usually offer drastically reduced tariffs or pretend that your current provider is “no longer active.”

Warning Signs:

“Your energy account is overdue.”
“We can reduce your bill by 40%.”
Asking for account numbers or meter details.

01413 109 863 – Debt Collection Scam

This Glasgow number is tied to debt scams. Victims report being contacted by aggressive agents claiming they owe money on unpaid loans. In most cases, these debts do not exist, and the scammers threaten court action or wage garnishment.

Scare Tactics:

Legal jargon to sound official.
Fake court case numbers.
Pushing to pay via wire transfer.

020 3896 0345 – Lottery & Prize Scam

A classic scam number where callers claim you’ve won a lottery, raffle, or other cash prize. They ask for processing fees or personal information before releasing the “winnings.” These scams prey on people hoping for a big break.

Don’t Fall For:

“You’ve won the UK National Lottery!”
“Send a £100 release fee.”
Requests for your bank details.

How to Protect Yourself from Spam Calls

Knowing these numbers is the first step, but here are actionable ways to stay protected:

Tips:

Never share personal info with unknown callers.
Hang up if something feels off — real authorities don’t pressure you.
Use call-blocking apps like Truecaller or Hiya.
Report spam calls to Ofcom or Action Fraud.
Register with the Telephone Preference Service (TPS).

Why These Numbers Keep Surfacing in 2025

With AI voice cloning, VoIP manipulation, and easy access to spoofing software, scammers can now mask their numbers or replicate legitimate ones. Many operate from abroad using UK-looking numbers, making it even harder to trace.

The rise of data leaks has also allowed fraudsters to target people more accurately by name, location, or job, giving their calls an air of legitimacy. Regulatory bodies are increasing their efforts, but public awareness remains the strongest defense.

What To Do If You’ve Been Targeted

If you’ve interacted with any of the above numbers or others like them:

Change your passwords and monitor your credit report.
Report the call to Action Fraud UK (https://www.actionfraud.police.uk).
File complaints with Ofcom or TPS.
Block the number permanently on your phone.

Conclusion

The surge in spam phone activity across the UK in 2025 is a major concern, but with proactive awareness, you can avoid falling victim. Numbers like 0333 303 5419, 0161 531 7256, and 020 3930 1824 continue to be at the forefront of this issue. Protect yourself by being cautious, informed, and ready to act.

Always question unknown callers, especially if they ask for money or sensitive data. Stay alert, report spam numbers, and share this list with friends and family.