This article examines one of the latest scam trends in the UK, with a focus on the phone number 0117 463 4628—a number associated with Bristol-based landlines that has been flagged by numerous reports. In recent years, the rise in scam calls has become a global concern, affecting individuals and businesses alike. With technology evolving, so do the tactics used by fraudsters. We will delve into how these scam calls operate, what warning signs to look for, and the practical steps you can take to protect yourself and your personal information.

Table of Contents

The Rise of 0117 463 4628 Phone Scams in the UK

Phone scams in the United Kingdom have grown both in sophistication and frequency. Fraudsters employ a range of techniques to trick unsuspecting individuals into divulging sensitive information, including financial details and personal identifiers. A notable example of this trend is the scam involving a number associated with a fraudulent Hello Fresh claim.

How Scammers Operate

Typically, these scams begin with a seemingly innocuous call that might appear to be from a reputable company or a familiar service provider. In the case of the 0117 463 4628 scam, reports indicate that the caller pretends to be a customer service representative from Hello Fresh. They initiate the conversation by referencing a cancellation or a follow-up call, which lends a veneer of legitimacy to their approach. However, as the conversation unfolds, the scammer attempts to extract key personal details—such as email addresses, post codes, and even fragments of payment card information—to compromise your financial security. Also read this blog post Who Called me 0800 497 0623.

The Bristol Connection

The phone number in question is linked to the Bristol area, a region that has seen a marked increase in scam-related reports. With 15 documented reports and over 4,000 lookups, this number has been flagged as dangerous by the community, with multiple users rating it as both “Dangerous” and “Harassing.” The geographical association with Bristol can sometimes give a false sense of local legitimacy, but as we will explore, scammers are adept at exploiting regional identifiers to build trust quickly.

The Anatomy of a Scam Call: A Closer Look at 0117 463 4628

Understanding the anatomy of a scam call is the first step in protecting yourself. Let’s break down the key components observed in the reports associated with the number 0117 463 4628:

Initiation with Familiar References

Many victims reported that the scam call commenced with a reference to recent account activity—such as the cancellation of a service (for example, Hello Fresh). This tactic is designed to lower the victim’s guard by creating a context that feels familiar and urgent.

Request for Sensitive Information

The scammer’s script typically includes a barrage of questions. In one reported incident, after a lengthy introduction, the caller asked for confirmation of personal details, including an email address, postal code, and the last four digits of a payment card. Such requests are red flags. Genuine companies rarely ask for sensitive information over an unsolicited phone call.

Use of Technical Jargon and Urgency

Words like “verification,” “card,” “discount,” and “customer service” are frequently mentioned in user reports. The scammer uses a mix of technical jargon and a sense of urgency to pressure the recipient into complying without hesitation. This tactic is meant to create a cognitive overload, making it difficult for the victim to pause and verify the authenticity of the call.

The Emotional Component

Interestingly, while some reports mention the caller was “polite,” others describe the call as “harassing” when the recipient was reluctant to provide the demanded information. This emotional manipulation aims to intimidate the recipient into compliance, often under the guise of providing a discount or a necessary service follow-up.

Table of Key Aspects of UK Scam Calls

To further clarify the critical components of such scam calls, consider the following table summarizing the key aspects:

Aspect	Details
Caller ID	0117 463 4628 – a Bristol-based landline with multiple scam reports.
Claimed Affiliation	Fraudulent claim to be linked with Hello Fresh and other reputable companies.
Common Phrases	“Cancellation follow-up,” “customer service,” “verification,” “discount available,” “please confirm your email, post code, and card details.”
User Ratings	Mixed ratings: 2 users rated it as Dangerous and 2 as Harassing.
Scam Techniques	Social engineering through urgency, technical jargon, and emotional pressure.
Frequency of Reports	15 reported incidents with over 4,294 lookups indicating widespread recognition in the scam community.
Outcome for Victims	Some victims managed to avoid financial loss by recognizing red flags; others had to block their cards and change associated credentials.

This table is intended to serve as a quick reference guide for individuals seeking to understand what to look out for when receiving suspicious calls.

Why Scammers Target Both the UK and US Markets

While this particular case involves a UK-based landline, phone scams are not exclusive to one region. Both the United Kingdom and the United States experience significant volumes of scam calls. There are several reasons for this cross-market targeting:

Broad Reach through VoIP and Caller ID Spoofing

Modern telecommunications technology, particularly Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), allows scammers to mask their actual location. Caller ID spoofing enables them to display a local number (such as one from Bristol) even if the call originates from overseas. This makes it harder for recipients to discern the legitimacy of the call at first glance.

Exploiting Familiar Brand Names

Fraudsters often latch onto well-known companies to gain the trust of potential victims. Hello Fresh, a company with a strong customer base in both the UK and the US, provides an ideal target for scammers. By mimicking the brand’s customer service protocols, scammers can create a deceptive sense of security.

Regulatory and Jurisdictional Challenges

The regulatory frameworks in the UK and the US, while robust, face challenges when it comes to international scams. The cross-border nature of these calls often complicates investigations and legal proceedings, leaving victims with limited recourse.

Recognising and Responding to Suspicious Calls

One of the most critical skills in today’s digital age is recognising when a call might be a scam. Here are some key tips and steps you can take:

Red Flags to Watch Out For

Unexpected Contact: If you receive an unsolicited call referencing a cancellation or urgent account update, be cautious.
Requests for Personal Data: Legitimate companies typically do not ask for sensitive information such as full payment card details over the phone.
Pressure Tactics: High-pressure language urging you to act immediately is a hallmark of many scam calls.
Caller ID Discrepancies: If the call appears to come from a local number but you have no recent dealings with that company, verify before proceeding.
Inconsistent Information: Any mismatch in the details provided by the caller should be a cause for concern.

Practical Steps for Verification

Hang Up Immediately: If you suspect a scam, end the call without providing any personal information.
Contact the Company Directly: Use official contact details from a trusted source—do not rely on information provided during the call.
Block the Number: Most smartphones allow you to block numbers. If you receive repeated scam calls, blocking can provide immediate relief.
Report the Incident: Notify your local consumer protection agency or the relevant regulatory body. In the UK, agencies like Action Fraud can be contacted to report such incidents.

How to Protect Your Personal Data

Be Skeptical of Unsolicited Requests: Always question why someone you don’t know needs your personal information.
Keep Personal Data Private: Never confirm or share details like your payment card numbers, passwords, or social security information over the phone unless you are sure of the caller’s legitimacy.
Educate Yourself: Stay informed about the latest scam trends by following reputable news outlets and regulatory agencies.

The Legal Landscape: Regulatory Measures Against Phone Scams

Governments and regulatory bodies in both the UK and the US have implemented several measures to combat phone scams. However, the rapidly evolving tactics of scammers often outpace these regulations.

UK Regulatory Efforts

In the United Kingdom, organizations such as Ofcom and Action Fraud work diligently to identify and block fraudulent calls. They provide resources and updates about emerging scam trends, and they also maintain databases of reported numbers, such as 0117 463 4628, to help consumers stay informed.

US Initiatives

Similarly, in the United States, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) have robust programs aimed at curbing scam calls. These agencies frequently update guidelines for both consumers and telecom companies to enhance security and response times.

International Cooperation

Given that many scam operations are international in scope, cross-border cooperation between regulatory bodies is essential. Collaborative efforts help share intelligence and streamline the process of tracking down scammers who use VoIP and other modern technologies to disguise their true locations.

Case Study: The Hello Fresh Scam and 0117 463 4628

A detailed case study of the scam involving 0117 463 4628 provides a practical illustration of how these fraudulent operations work. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of one such incident:

Background

After a customer had recently cancelled their Hello Fresh account, they received a call from the number 0117 463 4628. Initially, the call seemed routine—akin to a follow-up from a customer service department. However, as the conversation progressed, the caller began asking for personal verification details.

The Script Unfolds

Initial Contact: The scammer introduced themselves as a customer service representative, claiming to be calling in relation to the cancellation.
Building Trust: The caller used polite language and referenced familiar account details to create a sense of legitimacy.
Request for Information: As the conversation continued, the scammer requested the victim’s email address, post code, and the last four digits of their payment card.
The Critical Moment: When the victim provided the requested details, they quickly realised that something was amiss. The scam was designed to capture sensitive data that could later be misused for fraudulent activities.

Aftermath and Community Reporting

Following this incident, the victim reported the call on several telephone identifier sites. The number received a mix of “Dangerous” and “Harassing” ratings, with other users contributing similar experiences. The community’s collective efforts have helped flag this number, making it easier for others to recognise and avoid similar scams.

How to Verify Caller Authenticity

Verifying the authenticity of a caller is essential, especially when the call involves sensitive account details or requests for payment information. Here are some reliable methods:

Cross-Checking Official Contacts

Use Official Websites: Always refer to the company’s official website for contact information. Avoid using numbers or emails provided during an unexpected call.
Call Back Protocol: If you receive a suspicious call, hang up and call the company back using a verified telephone number. This simple step can help confirm whether the call was legitimate.

Utilizing Call-Blocking and Identification Apps

Modern technology has equipped consumers with a range of tools designed to flag and block scam calls. Apps that provide real-time alerts about suspicious numbers can be invaluable in today’s fast-paced digital environment. Many of these apps rely on community reporting—similar to the reports that flagged 0117 463 4628—to provide instant warnings.

Trusting Your Instincts

If something feels off during a call, it probably is. Even if the caller appears polite and professional, do not ignore gut feelings about the authenticity of the conversation. Always prioritise your personal safety and data security.

Best Practices for Handling Suspicious Calls

Beyond verification, adopting best practices in managing suspicious calls can significantly reduce your risk of falling victim to scams. Consider the following recommendations:

Educate Yourself and Your Family: Ensure that all members of your household are aware of the common tactics used by scammers. Regularly review updates from trusted sources and regulatory bodies.
Monitor Your Financial Statements: After any suspicious call, it’s wise to keep a close eye on your bank and credit card statements. Early detection of unauthorized transactions can mitigate potential losses.
Report Suspicious Activity: Whether you’re in the UK or the US, report any suspected scam calls to local authorities. This not only helps you but also contributes to broader community awareness.
Keep Software and Security Apps Updated: Cybersecurity isn’t just for computers. Many smartphones come with built-in features or apps that help detect and block scam calls. Keeping these tools updated can offer an extra layer of protection.
Use Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): For sensitive accounts, 2FA provides an additional security measure. Even if a scammer manages to gather some information, this extra step can prevent them from gaining full access to your accounts.

The Importance of Community Vigilance

Community reporting plays a crucial role in combating phone scams. The case of 0117 463 4628 illustrates how user feedback and shared experiences contribute to a collective defence mechanism. Websites that allow users to rate and review suspicious numbers are instrumental in alerting the public to emerging threats. By pooling their experiences, communities can help others stay one step ahead of scammers.

How Community Reporting Works

User-Generated Reports: Individuals share their experiences, including the time, date, and nature of the call. This information is then aggregated on platforms dedicated to identifying scam numbers.
Rating Systems: These platforms often employ rating systems where users can classify calls as “Dangerous,” “Harassing,” or even “Legitimate.” Such classifications help create a quick reference for potential victims.
Frequent Updates: As more reports are submitted, the information is continually updated. This dynamic database helps maintain an up-to-date record of known scam numbers and tactics.

The Role of Regulatory Bodies

Regulatory agencies, such as the UK’s Action Fraud and Ofcom, rely on community reports to identify and take action against scammers. These agencies often work in collaboration with telecom companies to block numbers and prevent further fraudulent activity. It’s important for individuals to report any suspicious calls, as each report can lead to broader actions that benefit the entire community.

Global Implications and Cross-Border Scams

While our primary focus here is on a UK-based scam call, it’s worth noting that phone scams are a global issue. The tactics employed by scammers in the UK are often mirrored in other regions, including the United States. Understanding the global nature of these scams can help consumers everywhere stay alert.

How Scammers Adapt Across Regions

Localisation of Tactics: Scammers adapt their language, cultural references, and even the products or services they reference (like Hello Fresh) to suit their target demographic.
Technology as an Enabler: The use of VoIP and caller ID spoofing means that a scammer in one country can easily pose as a local contact in another. This adaptability makes it difficult for regulatory bodies to enforce national borders on scam prevention.
Shared Intelligence: Law enforcement agencies in the UK and the US often share intelligence regarding scam patterns, which helps in tracking down fraudulent operations and issuing warnings to the public.

Lessons for International Consumers

Consumers in both the UK and the US should adopt a vigilant approach when it comes to phone scams. Understanding that scams can cross borders—and that the tactics are often similar—empowers individuals to recognise warning signs regardless of their location.

Protecting Yourself: Tools and Technologies

Modern consumers are not without recourse when it comes to protecting themselves from scam calls. Several tools and technologies can provide an additional safety net:

Call-Blocking Applications

There are numerous apps available for smartphones that help identify and block scam calls in real time. These apps use large databases of reported scam numbers and continuously update their algorithms to detect new threats. For example, if you receive a call from 0117 463 4628, an effective call-blocking app may automatically alert you that the number has been flagged by the community.

Identity Verification Services

For those who are more concerned about the security of their personal data, identity verification services can monitor your information for signs of fraudulent activity. These services are especially useful after you suspect that your personal data might have been compromised due to a scam call.

Two-Factor Authentication and Secure Passwords

As mentioned earlier, implementing two-factor authentication (2FA) and maintaining strong, unique passwords for your accounts are key steps in safeguarding your data. Even if a scammer manages to obtain partial information, these measures provide additional barriers to prevent full-scale fraud.

FAQs on “Who Called Me UK?”

To further assist consumers in navigating the challenges posed by scam calls, here are some frequently asked questions:

Q: How can I tell if a call from 0117 463 4628 is a scam?

A: Look for common red flags: unsolicited requests for personal data, urgent language demanding immediate action, and references to account activities (like cancellations) that you did not initiate. If in doubt, hang up and verify using official contact details from the company’s website.

Q: What should I do if I answer a suspicious call?

A: If you accidentally provide any personal information, immediately contact your bank or financial institution to monitor for suspicious activity. Change your passwords and report the incident to your local authorities or a dedicated scam reporting service.

Q: Are there any tools that can help me identify scam calls?

A: Yes. There are various call-blocking and identification apps available for both Android and iOS devices. These apps often use community-sourced data to alert you if a number, such as 0117 463 4628, has been flagged as suspicious.

Q: Is it common for scammers to mimic companies like Hello Fresh?

A: Unfortunately, yes. Scammers frequently use the names of reputable companies to lend legitimacy to their calls. Always verify by calling the company directly using contact information from their official website.

Q: How can community reports help in preventing scam calls?

A: Community reporting creates a collective database of known scam numbers, which regulatory bodies and technology providers use to block or warn users about these numbers. Your report can help protect others from falling victim to similar scams.

The Future of Scam Calls: What to Expect in 2025

As we approach 2025, the sophistication of scam calls is expected to increase. Fraudsters are constantly evolving their techniques, using artificial intelligence and advanced caller ID spoofing to mimic legitimate businesses more convincingly than ever before. Here’s what experts predict for the near future:

Increased Use of AI and Automation

Scammers are likely to harness AI technology to tailor their scripts more dynamically, making it even more challenging to distinguish between a genuine call and a fraudulent one. Consumers will need to remain vigilant and rely on multiple layers of verification to protect themselves.

Enhanced Collaboration Between Regulators and Telecom Providers

In response to the growing threat, regulatory bodies in the UK and the US are expected to strengthen their partnerships with telecom companies. These collaborations could lead to more effective identification and blocking of scam calls, reducing the overall impact of such frauds.

Greater Public Awareness and Education

With more high-profile cases and community reporting, public awareness about scam calls is expected to rise. Educational campaigns by government agencies and consumer protection organizations will play a critical role in informing the public on how to stay safe.

Technological Innovations in Call Verification

New technologies aimed at authenticating caller identities are on the horizon. These innovations may include advanced voice recognition systems and blockchain-based verification methods, which could help provide a more secure telecommunications environment.

Conclusion: Staying One Step Ahead of Scammers

Scam calls remain a pressing issue for consumers in both the UK and the US. The case of 0117 463 4628, with its association to fraudulent Hello Fresh claims, underscores the need for vigilance and proactive measures. By understanding the tactics scammers use—from the use of familiar company names and local phone numbers to sophisticated caller ID spoofing—you can better protect your personal and financial information.

Remember, if you ever find yourself questioning “who called me uk,” take the time to verify the legitimacy of the call before sharing any personal data. Leverage the tools and strategies discussed in this article, such as using verified contact numbers, employing call-blocking apps, and staying informed through community reports. By adopting these best practices and remaining aware of emerging scam trends, you can safeguard yourself and contribute to a broader culture of consumer protection.

Ultimately, the responsibility for combating scam calls does not rest solely with regulatory bodies; it also depends on informed, proactive individuals. In 2025 and beyond, staying educated and cautious will be your best defense against increasingly sophisticated phone scams.