Ofcom, the UK’s telecoms regulator, is targeting scam calls that fraudulently use UK mobile numbers to seem more credible. If you have ever hesitated to answer a call from an unknown UK number, Ofcom is addressing this problem.
These scams exploit a technique called ‘spoofing’, where a UK mobile number is faked to increase call legitimacy. Marina Gibbs, Ofcom’s Policy Director for Networks and Communications, remarked, “Customers endure a barrage of scam calls, and when people get caught out, the consequences can be devastating. It can happen to anyone, with criminal gangs in other countries trying to exploit people when their guard is down.”
The regulator’s effort has blocked a million scam calls each day, but challenges remain. Scammers understand people are more likely to answer calls appearing to come from familiar UK numbers. Research reveals only one in ten would answer an unrecognized international number, but one in four might respond to a UK number that turns out to be fraudulent.
Previously, phone companies were instructed to block international calls if they faked a UK landline. However, scammers continued exploiting mobile numbers, partly due to concerns about blocking legitimate users roaming abroad. Ofcom now aims to close this loophole. The proposal requires telecom companies to hide caller IDs for calls from abroad that mimic UK mobile numbers unless they can confirm authenticity.
Cybersecurity experts have praised these measures as long overdue. Marijus Briedis, NordVPN’s Chief Technology Officer, stated, “Scam calls are not a new crime, and the methods to deal with them are not fit for purpose. It is encouraging to see Ofcom tackling the issues and putting pressure on telecom providers to do more to protect their customers.” Briedis also warned that scam calls often lead to serious financial crimes like ‘SIM-swapping’, allowing criminals to intercept calls and access victims’ accounts.
While these regulations could impact scam prevention significantly, individuals can protect themselves immediately. Briedis suggests contacting mobile providers for services like EE’s Scam Guard or using reputable call-blocking apps. Always block known scam numbers.
