Renata’s Guide On Self Care (Part 2): How To Protect Yourself From Phone Scammers

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Readers should always exercise caution when dealing with phone calls from unknown or suspicious numbers. If you feel threatened or suspect a scam, report the matter to Action Fraud or the relevant authority. Some topics discussed, such as financial fraud, harassment, or emotional distress, may be upsetting or triggering for some individuals. If you have been affected by a scam and feel overwhelmed, consider speaking to a mental health professional or support organisation. Technologies and policies evolve; always check your mobile provider’s latest options for spam call blocking, and be aware that caller ID spoofing may still bypass some filters. Due diligence and vigilance remain your best defence.

Stay Safe, Stay Smart – Recognise and Avoid Telephone Fraud

The Rise of Phone Scams

Phone scams have become a sophisticated threat targeting individuals of all ages. From fake bank calls to impersonations of government bodies like HMRC or the DWP, scammers use fear, urgency, and clever manipulation tactics to trick people into handing over sensitive information or money. Recognising the red flags and knowing how to protect yourself is the first step toward staying safe.

Common Phone Scam Tactics

Scammers often use psychological tricks and impersonation to convince victims they are legitimate. Here are some common tactics:

Urgency & Threats: Claiming you owe money or that there is suspicious activity on your bank account.
Caller ID Spoofing: Making it appear as if the call is from a trusted source.
Too-Good-To-Be-True Offers: Promises of prizes, investments, or lottery wins.
Tech Support Scams: Claiming to be from Microsoft, Apple, or your internet provider to fix “issues” on your device.
Impersonation of Authorities: Posing as police, court officials, HMRC, or DWP officers.

How to Protect Yourself

1. Never Share Personal Information

Do not disclose passwords, PINs, or account numbers over the phone. Legitimate organisations will never ask for these.

2. Hang Up and Verify

If in doubt, hang up immediately. Look up the organisation’s number independently and call back to confirm the legitimacy of the request.

3. Don’t Be Rushed

Scammers rely on pressure tactics. Take a moment, breathe, and assess the situation. Genuine organisations will give you time to think.

4. Register with TPS

The Telephone Preference Service (TPS) is a free service that helps reduce unwanted sales and marketing calls. Register at www.tpsonline.org.uk.

5. Use Call Blocking Technology

Most smartphones and telecom providers offer call blocking features or apps that filter known scam numbers.

6. Educate and Talk to Others

Share what you know with friends, family, and especially older relatives who may be more vulnerable.

Signs You’re Being Targeted

The caller demands immediate payment or threatens legal action.
You are asked to transfer money or buy gift cards.
The call comes at odd hours or is unusually persistent.
The person becomes aggressive or tries to keep you on the line.

What to Do if You’ve Been Scammed

Report it immediately to Action Fraud (UK’s national reporting centre for fraud): www.actionfraud.police.uk or call 0300 123 2040.
Inform your bank or financial institution right away if any money was involved.
Change your passwords for any affected accounts.
Keep evidence: Note down the number, time, and details of the call.

Is It a Crime? Yes – And You Have Rights

Phone scams fall under fraud and misuse of telecommunications laws in the UK. Under the Fraud Act 2006, scammers can face serious penalties. You are not to blame if you are targeted; reporting these crimes helps protect others, too.

For Extra Peace of Mind

Consider the following:

Use a call screening service.
Get on ex-directory so your number isn’t public.
Don’t answer calls from unknown or international numbers.
Keep your voicemail generic, don’t give away personal info.

Extra Tip: Personalise Your Call Security

Most smartphones today come with built-in call filters, spam detection, and do-not-disturb (DND) modes. You can take extra steps to protect your peace of mind:

Use “Do Not Disturb” mode with only favourite contacts allowed through.
Silence Unknown Callers (available on iPhones and Android devices).
Create Custom Labels for blocked numbers, a creative approach is to assign names like:
"Parasite-August-2025-#1"
This helps you keep track of repeat offenders or patterns.
Block and Report every suspicious number.

Staying in control of who can reach you helps reduce anxiety and increases productivity.

Final Thoughts

Phone scams can happen to anyone. They are designed to catch you off guard, but by staying calm, informed, and cautious, you can avoid falling victim. Always trust your instincts; if something feels off, it probably is. And remember, you are never alone. There are systems in place to help and protect you.