Mobile networks such as BT EE, VodafoneThree, and Virgin Media O2 are taking action to prevent foreign call centers from pretending to be banks in a new effort to combat scams. These networks have committed to enhancing their infrastructure in the coming year to prevent foreign call centers from spoofing UK numbers.
Number spoofing, a technique used by scammers to mask their identity by altering their caller ID to appear legitimate, will be addressed by the crackdown. The initiative aims to clearly indicate calls originating from overseas.
In addition to this measure, artificial intelligence (AI) technology will be utilized to detect and block suspicious calls and texts. Advanced call tracing technology will also be provided to law enforcement agencies to aid in locating scammers nationwide.
Various companies, including BT EE, Virgin Media O2, VodafoneThree, Tesco Mobile, Talk Talk, Sky, and Comms Council UK (CCUK), have joined forces to combat fraudulent activities.
Recent data reveals that 96% of mobile users make decisions about answering calls based on the displayed number. Furthermore, three-quarters of users are unlikely to answer calls from unknown international numbers.
Lord Hanson, the Minister for Fraud, emphasized the government’s commitment to combating fraud by eliminating call spoofing within a year. This move is intended to remove scammers’ tools for deceiving individuals and extracting money fraudulently.
To report scams and fraud, individuals are encouraged to contact Action Fraud at 0300 123 2040 or visit the Action Fraud website. In Scotland, scams can be reported to Advice Direct Scotland at 0808 164 6000 or through their website. Scams can also be reported to Police Scotland at 101.
Furthermore, individuals are advised to forward scam emails to report@phishing.gov.uk and scam text messages to 7726 at no cost. Suspicious websites can be reported to the National Cyber Security Centre.
If a suspected scam call is received, it is recommended to hang up immediately and verify the contact details of the caller online. Never call back the provided number; instead, contact your bank promptly if fraud is suspected. Changing passwords that have been compromised is also advised for security reasons.