Stop scams · United Kingdom · Updated 19 October 2026
Stop scam calls: UK guides
A plan for the next unexpected call, whether you are answering the shop phone or helping someone in your family.
If a suspicious call is happening now
Hang up. Do not press buttons or share details. Check the organisation using contact details you find independently. Ofcom explains these steps.
Choose the guide you need
- Fake Google listing calls: what to do about a demand to pay to keep your business visible.
- Protect your parents from scam calls: agree a routine together before an urgent call arrives.
- A caller sounds like someone in your family: check a familiar voice and an emergency money request.
- Cold sales calls to your business: TPS, Corporate TPS and handling unwanted pitches.
- Report a scam in the UK: bank contact, 7726 and the right police reporting route.
Start with the official tools
Telephone Preference Service (TPS) and Corporate TPS (CTPS) are registers for opting out of live marketing calls. The ICO explains which register applies. They do not stop scammers; Ofcom warns that TPS does not block scam calls.
For a suspicious financial call, hang up and use 159 to reach a participating bank safely. Calls may be charged by your phone provider. Forward suspicious SMS texts to 7726, free of charge, following Ofcom’s reporting instructions.
The government’s Stop! Think Fraud campaign explains impersonation, pressure and fake urgency. For investment and pension approaches, use the FCA’s ScamSmart link, which now opens its current scam guidance.
Questions people ask
Where should I start?
Choose the guide for the call you received. If money or account details are involved, start with the reporting guide.
Are these guides for families or businesses?
Both. Use the family guides with someone you trust, or share the business guides with whoever answers your work phone.
Related UK scam library pages
Browse the UK scam library for texts, calls, message apps and emails.