In recent months, a phone number with the digits 01242 383325 has been making waves across the UK—but not for the right reasons. Hundreds of people have reported receiving unsolicited calls from this number, with many describing it as a persistent and frustrating scam. The calls, often claiming to be from an energy company, have left many Britons feeling uneasy and annoyed. Here’s what we know so far.
What’s Happening?
The number, which appears to originate from Cheltenham, has been linked to a series of scam calls targeting individuals across the country. The calls typically involve a person claiming to represent an energy company, offering lower tariffs or claiming that the recipient’s energy bills are about to increase. In some cases, the callers even know the recipient’s first name and partial postcode, adding an unsettling layer of personalisation to the scam.
One user, who left a comment on a popular phone number review website, said: “They called me twice today, claiming to be from an energy company. They knew my name and postcode, which really freaked me out. I hung up and blocked the number, but it’s scary how much they knew.”
Another user reported: “They said my energy bills were going up by 10% and offered to switch me to a cheaper tariff. I knew it was a scam because I’d just checked my bills online. It’s so frustrating that these people are allowed to operate like this.”
A Growing Problem
The issue isn’t isolated to a handful of people. Dozens of comments on the website detail similar experiences, with many users describing the calls as “persistent,” “annoying,” and “dangerous.” Some have reported receiving multiple calls in a single day, while others have noted that the calls often come in quick succession, only to stop abruptly when the phone is answered.
One frustrated individual wrote: “They called me five times this morning, one after the other. Each time, they hung up before the answerphone could kick in. It’s clearly a scam, but it’s so invasive.”
Another user shared: “I’ve had this number blocked for a while, but they’ve started calling again. They’re obviously trying to catch people off guard, especially during such an expensive time of year.”
How the Scam Works
The scam appears to follow a familiar pattern. The caller, often with a foreign accent, claims to be from an energy company or utility provider. They may mention specific details, such as the recipient’s name or postcode, to make the call seem legitimate. The goal is to convince the recipient to share personal or financial information, which can then be used for fraudulent purposes.
One user recounted: “They asked for the first part of my postcode and said they could save me money on my energy bills. I told them I’d get back to them, but after reading the comments online, I’m glad I didn’t fall for it.”
Another user described a particularly aggressive encounter: “The caller became very hostile when I challenged them. They knew my name and postcode, which was really unsettling. I told them to back off and blocked the number, but it’s worrying how persistent they are.”
Why Can’t It Be Stopped?
One of the most common frustrations among those affected is the apparent inability of telecom companies to put a stop to these calls. Many of the calls are made using Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology, which allows scammers to disguise their real location and identity. This makes it difficult for authorities to track down and prosecute those responsible.
“Why can’t the telecoms companies do something about this?” asked one user. “It’s 2025, and we’re still dealing with these nuisance calls. It’s ridiculous.”
Another user echoed this sentiment: “They’re using VoIP to hide their identity, so blocking the number doesn’t always work. It’s time for the laws to change and for these people to be held accountable.”
What Can You Do?
If you receive a call from 01242 383325—or any other suspicious number—here are some steps you can take to protect yourself:
- Don’t Engage: If you suspect a call is a scam, hang up immediately. Do not provide any personal or financial information.
- Block the Number: Most smartphones and landlines allow you to block specific numbers. While this may not stop all nuisance calls, it can reduce their frequency.
- Report the Call: You can report suspicious calls to Action Fraud, the UK’s national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime. You can also contact your phone provider to flag the number.
- Stay Informed: Websites that allow users to review and comment on phone numbers can be a valuable resource. If a number has been flagged as a scam by multiple users, it’s best to avoid answering.
A Call for Action
The widespread reports about 01242 383325 highlight a growing problem that affects thousands of people across the UK. While individual actions like blocking numbers and reporting calls can help, many believe that more needs to be done at a systemic level to tackle the issue.
“It’s time for the government and telecom companies to step up,” said one user. “These scams are becoming more sophisticated, and it’s ordinary people who are paying the price.”
As the number of nuisance calls continues to rise, one thing is clear: until stronger measures are put in place, Britons will need to remain vigilant and cautious when answering calls from unknown numbers.