Scam phone calls and text messages are becoming increasingly common and increasingly convincing. From fake parcel delivery notifications to fraudsters pretending to be your bank, criminals are constantly finding new ways to trick people into handing over money or sensitive information.

Recent research from Ofcom shows that a significant number of people in the UK have encountered scam calls or messages in some form. As these scams become more sophisticated, it’s more important than ever to know how to spot the warning signs and protect yourself.

Common Types of Phone and Text Scams

Scammers often impersonate trusted organisations to make their messages appear genuine. You may receive calls or texts claiming to be from:

• Your bank or building society
• Your mobile or broadband provider
• Parcel delivery companies
• Government departments such as HMRC
• The NHS

These fraudsters frequently exploit current events or seasonal trends to appear believable. For example, during lockdown periods and peak online shopping seasons, “missed delivery” scams became particularly widespread. Victims would receive a text claiming a parcel could not be delivered unless an additional fee was paid or personal details were confirmed.

In many cases, the goal is to:

• Steal financial or personal information
• Encourage victims to click malicious links
• Gain remote access to devices or accounts

Three Simple Steps to Stay Safe

If You Receive a Suspicious Text Message

Stop

Pause before responding. Read the message carefully and look for anything unusual, such as spelling mistakes, suspicious links, or urgent demands.

Don’t Click

Never click on unknown links or provide personal, banking, or security information.

Report

Forward suspicious text messages to 7726 free of charge and warn friends and family about the scam.

If You Receive a Suspicious Phone Call

Stop

Do not share any personal or financial details during the call.

Hang Up

If you’re unsure whether the call is genuine, hang up immediately and contact the organisation directly using a trusted phone number from their official website.

Report

Report scam calls to Report Fraud and make others aware of the scam attempt.

What Is 7726?

The number 7726 is a free reporting service used by all major UK mobile networks to help tackle scam calls and text messages.

Interestingly, the number spells “SPAM” on a traditional phone keypad, making it easier to remember.

When you forward a suspicious text or report a scam call to 7726, your mobile provider can investigate the number and help prevent further scams.

What To Do If You’ve Been Scammed

If you believe you’ve fallen victim to a scam, act quickly.

In England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, fraud and cybercrime can be reported to Action Fraud by:

• Calling 0300 123 2040

In Scotland, incidents should be reported to Police Scotland via 101.

Stay Alert and Help Others Stay Safe

Even if you feel confident spotting scams yourself, many vulnerable people can still be targeted successfully. Reporting suspicious messages and calls helps mobile providers and authorities identify criminal activity faster and protect others from becoming victims.

Staying cautious, verifying unexpected communications, and reporting suspicious activity are some of the simplest and most effective ways to stay safe in today’s connected world.

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