Ofcom to introduce new fake phone number rules

As part of its findings, the telecoms regulator found that a common tactic used was to imitate – or ‘spoof’ – the phone numbers of legitimate organisations, estimating that around 700,000 people had done this in the three months up to August 2022 alone.  

As such, Ofcom has set out new rules and guidance designed to prevent scammers from using fake phone numbers. Phone companies will now be required – where feasible – to identify and block spoofed calls.  

It also outlined guidance as to how all phone companies should identify and block spoofed calls. This includes making sure a number meets the UK’s 10 or 11-digit format, blocking calls from numbers on Ofcom’s Do Not Originate list, and identifying and blocking calls from abroad spoofing a UK caller ID.  

The organisation has given phone companies six months to make the necessary technical changes to comply with these new rules, which will come into force in May 2023. 

Additionally, it outlined guidance as to how phone companies can prevent scammers from accessing valid phone numbers.  

This sets out clear expectations for providers to make sure they run "know your customer" checks on business customers. These could involve checking the Companies House register, fraud risk databases and the Financial Conduct Authority’s Warning List to uncover information that may indicate a high risk of misuse by the customer seeking to use phone numbers. 

Phone companies should also act to prevent any further potential misuse – this may include suspending the number and reporting evidence of fraudulent activity to law enforcement. 

Lindsey Fussell, Ofcom’s group director for networks and communications, said: "Scam calls and texts are a major source of fraud, and they represent a clear and present danger to every phone user. Criminals are becoming increasingly sophisticated, and it’s easy to be caught out by a scam. 

"We’re constantly working with phone companies and other organisations on new ways to combat these scams. Blocking fake numbers can have a significant impact, so we’re making sure all phone companies apply this protection for their customers."