Mobile networks such as BT EE, VodafoneThree, and Virgin Media O2 are taking action to prevent foreign call centers from posing as banks in a new crackdown on scams. These networks have committed to enhancing their infrastructure to block the ability of overseas call centers to mimic UK numbers within the next year.
Scammers engage in number spoofing by using technology to conceal their true number and alter their caller ID to appear as a trustworthy entity. The upcoming measures will ensure that calls originating from abroad are clearly identified. In addition, artificial intelligence (AI) will be utilized to detect and block suspicious calls and messages, while advanced call tracing technology will be provided to law enforcement to assist in locating scammers nationwide.
Leading companies participating in this initiative include BT EE, Virgin Media O2, VodafoneThree, Tesco Mobile, Talk Talk, Sky, and Comms Council UK (CCUK). Recent data indicates that 96% of mobile users base their decision to answer calls on the displayed number, with a significant portion hesitant to pick up calls from unknown international numbers.
Lord Hanson, the Minister for Fraud, emphasized the government’s commitment to combatting fraudulent activities, stating that spoofed calls enable scammers to deceive individuals with false identities and promises. He highlighted the forthcoming upgrade of the mobile network, which aims to eradicate call spoofing within a year, thereby thwarting scammers’ methods of deceiving people out of their money.
Citizens are encouraged to report scams and fraud to Action Fraud at 0300 123 2040 or through their website. In Scotland, individuals can report scams to Advice Direct Scotland at 0808 164 6000 or on their website, as well as to Police Scotland at 101. Suspicious emails should be forwarded to report@phishing.gov.uk, and suspicious text messages to 7726. Dodgy websites can be reported to the National Cyber Security Centre.
If there are suspicions of a scam call, individuals are advised to hang up immediately and verify the caller’s contact details online. It is crucial not to call back the provided number and to promptly contact the bank if fraud is suspected. Passwords that have been compromised should be changed without delay to enhance security.
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