UK telecoms regulations are set to become more stringent, aiming to block millions of suspicious calls from international scammers, according to the communications regulator Ofcom.

Starting January 2025, phone companies will be required to prevent calls from abroad that mimic UK landline numbers, a practice known as "spoofing." This measure is intended to safeguard individuals who are more inclined to answer calls if they appear to be from a UK number on their phone.

Ofcom has urged telecom firms to devise innovative solutions to combat fraudsters who spoof UK mobile numbers as well. A recent survey highlighted that nearly half of UK landline users encountered suspicious calls in the past three months of 2024, underscoring the prevalence of such fraudulent activities.

"Scam calls pose significant risks, causing both financial losses and emotional distress to victims," remarked Lindsey Fussell from Ofcom. The regulator emphasized that these new rules are pivotal in shielding the public from scam calls, particularly impacting vulnerable demographics like the over-75s.

Prior to these regulations, Ofcom noted that BT had already taken proactive steps to block approximately one million suspicious calls daily as part of voluntary initiatives. The regulator advises caution, recommending individuals not to rely solely on caller ID information and to refrain from sharing personal details in response to unsolicited calls.

For those who suspect they have fallen victim to caller ID spoofing, Ofcom directs them to contact Action Fraud at 0300 123 2040 or visit www.actionfraud.police.uk for further assistance.

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