In an age where digital security and privacy are paramount, the persistent issue of spam and scam phone calls continues to frustrate and endanger countless individuals. As we move through 2025, reports of scam calls in the UK remain high, with fraudsters becoming increasingly sophisticated in their techniques.
Whether it’s fake bank alerts, investment schemes, or HMRC impersonation, these fraudulent calls often leave victims stressed, confused, and in some cases, financially damaged. Below, we explore the top reported spam phone numbers in the UK for 2025, based on consumer complaints and reporting services. This article provides a breakdown of the most common scam numbers, along with the tactics used by the callers.
Table of Top Reported Spam Phone Numbers in the UK (2025)
| Phone Number | Location/Prefix | Type of Scam | Common Reports |
| 01746 554946 | Bridgnorth, UK | HMRC / Tax Scam | Threats of legal action over unpaid taxes |
| 01416 740627 | Glasgow, UK | Energy Rebate Scam | Claims of refund for energy overpayment |
| 0808 196 5546 | Toll-Free (UK) | Insurance Claim Scam | Accident claim follow-ups |
| 0203 996 2499 | London, UK | Cryptocurrency Scam | Fake investment opportunities |
| +44 20 3781 0895 | London, UK | Bank Impersonation | Fraudulent activity alerts from “banks” |
| 0204 614 5924 | London, UK | Internet Provider Scam | Threats to disconnect broadband |
| 0331 630 4717 | UK-wide (Non-geo) | HMRC Impersonation | Recorded messages about tax fraud |
| 0208 058 6074 | London, UK | Tech Support Scam | Remote access requests to fix “issues” |
| 02870 024 370 | Northern Ireland | Fake Loan Offer | Offers of unsecured loans at low interest |
| 0161 850 7761 | Manchester, UK | Bank Verification Scam | Requests for personal banking details |
01746 554946 – HMRC Tax Scam from Bridgnorth
This number has been linked to scam calls impersonating HMRC (Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs). Many individuals reported receiving threatening messages warning them of imminent legal action due to supposed unpaid tax bills.
These calls often use automated voice messages, claiming a warrant is being issued for the recipient’s arrest unless they return the call immediately. The goal is to instill panic, pushing victims to call back and surrender sensitive personal or financial information.
Key Red Flags:
- Demands for immediate payment over the phone
- Threats of arrest or legal proceedings
- Requests for payment via vouchers or cryptocurrency
01416 740627 – Energy Rebate Scam in Glasgow
Originating from the Glasgow area, this number has been reported for impersonating energy providers. Callers often claim the recipient is due a rebate or refund on their gas or electricity bill.
In order to “process the rebate,” victims are asked to confirm their bank account details or make a small payment upfront, a common technique used to gain access to larger funds.
Typical Phrases Used:
- “You’ve overpaid on your recent energy bill.”
- “We need to verify your identity before issuing the refund.”
0808 196 5546 – Toll-Free Insurance Scam
This freephone number has been associated with a range of car insurance and accident claim scams. Users report receiving calls from so-called “legal firms” who claim they’re aware the recipient was recently in a traffic accident.
These are cold calls designed to mine personal data or pressure the individual into making a false insurance claim – a practice which is not only fraudulent but could land victims in legal trouble.
Warning Signs:
- The caller knows vague details about a supposed accident
- Pressure to act quickly or sign documents
0203 996 2499 – Cryptocurrency Investment Scam
A number linked with investment fraud, this London-based number has been used by scammers posing as financial advisors offering cryptocurrency investment opportunities.
Check Recent Spamming Numbers:
08006520266: : 01182286719: :
: : 01213927485: : 02871140108
Callers often promise high returns with low risk, using buzzwords like “Bitcoin,” “blockchain,” or “AI-driven portfolios” to sound convincing. Victims are then persuaded to transfer money to fake trading platforms, never to see it again.
Protective Tips:
- Always verify financial institutions with the FCA register
- Be cautious of unsolicited investment advice
+44 20 3781 0895 – Bank Impersonation Fraud
This international format UK number is frequently linked to bank impersonation scams. Victims report receiving calls claiming to be from well-known UK banks, such as HSBC, Lloyds, or Barclays.
The caller often warns about suspicious activity on the recipient’s account and suggests urgent action is needed, such as transferring funds to a “safe account.”
Key Features:
- Caller ID spoofing legitimate bank numbers
- Use of high-pressure tactics to rush decisions
- Requests to move funds or confirm online banking details
0204 614 5924 – Fake Broadband Disconnection Alert
This number is used by scammers pretending to be from UK broadband providers like BT, Sky, or Virgin Media. They claim that your broadband will be disconnected due to “suspicious activity” or unpaid bills.
Some calls are automated, while others involve live operators who attempt to gain remote access to your computer under the guise of “fixing the problem.”
What to Watch For:
- Requests to install remote access software (e.g., TeamViewer)
- Threats of internet termination unless immediate action is taken
0331 630 4717 – Non-Geographic HMRC Voice Scam
A common tactic among scammers is the use of non-geographic numbers such as this one. These numbers are hard to trace and are often used to broadcast automated robocalls imitating HMRC.
Callers typically warn that the recipient is under investigation for tax fraud. The robotic voice demands a return call to avoid arrest. This is a classic phishing attempt targeting fear and confusion.
Advice:
- HMRC will never use pre-recorded messages for serious legal matters
- Never press buttons or return calls from these messages
0208 058 6074 – Tech Support Scam in London
This number is associated with fake tech support agents claiming to be from Microsoft or other IT companies. Victims are told that their device has been infected with malware or that there are errors needing urgent repair.
Scammers then persuade the person to give them control of the computer or to purchase unneeded software or antivirus tools.
Typical Tactics:
- Pop-up ads triggering a callback to this number
- Claims that the computer is sending error reports to Microsoft
02870 024 370 – Northern Ireland Loan Scam
With a Northern Ireland prefix, this number is widely reported for offering too-good-to-be-true loan deals. Victims are told they qualify for large loans at low interest, but a “processing fee” or “insurance charge” is required upfront.
After making the payment, victims find that the “loan” never arrives, and the scammers become uncontactable.
Tips to Avoid:
- Never pay fees upfront for a loan
- Use FCA-regulated lenders only
0161 850 7761 – Manchester-Based Bank Verification Scam
Reported primarily in Manchester, this number is used by fraudsters impersonating bank security departments. They claim to be verifying unusual transactions or new device logins.
They then prompt victims to verify account details, often including full banking credentials, card numbers, or one-time passcodes.
Immediate Red Flags:
- Callers claiming to cancel a suspicious transaction, but needing your card info to do so
- Urging you not to contact the bank directly and “stay on the line”
How to Protect Yourself from Spam Calls in 2025
Spam and scam calls are growing more sophisticated, but staying alert can make all the difference. Here are some general safety tips:
✅ Verify, Don’t Trust
Always verify the identity of a caller claiming to be from a bank, government office, or service provider by hanging up and calling back through official contact channels.
✅ Use Call Blocking Services
Most UK mobile networks offer spam filtering and blocking apps. Tools like Hiya, Truecaller, or your provider’s own service can identify and block known scam numbers.
✅ Report Suspicious Calls
If you receive a scam call, report it to:
- Action Fraud (UK’s national reporting centre)
- Ofcom
- Your mobile network provider
Final Thoughts
Scammers are relentless, but informed consumers are their worst enemy. As technology evolves, so do fraud techniques, making awareness and vigilance the best defence.
The phone numbers listed above have been widely reported in 2025, and while scammers may change numbers often, the patterns of deceit remain consistent. Be cautious, verify before engaging, and help spread the word to protect others.
