Mystery Caller: The Persistent Phone Number Sparking Complaints Across the UK

A phone number with the prefix 0131 has been causing frustration and concern for people across the UK, with dozens of reports labelling it as a source of nuisance calls, scams, and cold calls. The number, 01312048780, has been linked to a variety of suspicious activities, from fake accident claims to unsolicited solar energy offers. Here’s what we know so far.

A Pattern of Problems

The number first came to public attention in March 2023, when multiple people reported receiving calls about a "recent car accident" they were supposedly involved in. One caller claimed to be from a legal company, offering compensation for an accident that never happened. Others reported silence on the line or abrupt hang-ups, leaving them puzzled and annoyed.

One user wrote on a complaints forum: "Claimed they were from a legal company and said they wanted to talk about a car accident I had a few years ago. Said they needed my bank details to help me claim insurance compensation for that accident. Probably fraud!"

This theme of fake accident claims has been a recurring issue. Many recipients of the calls have no history of accidents, making it clear that the calls are part of a scam. One person even managed to keep the caller on the line for six minutes, joking that it was a "small win" as it prevented them from targeting someone else.

Solar Energy or Scam?

In November 2024, the number took on a new guise. A caller claimed to represent a "Solar Energy Advice" company based in East London, despite the 0131 area code being linked to Edinburgh. The caller politely explained that they were targeting households without solar panels, but the recipient quickly pointed out that cold calling is illegal under the Telephone Preference Service (TPS). The call was promptly ended.

This incident highlights the adaptability of the scammers behind the number. Whether it’s fake accident claims or unsolicited energy advice, the goal seems to be the same: to extract personal information or money from unsuspecting individuals.

Silence and Suspicion

Many of the complaints about 01312048780 involve calls where no one speaks. Users report answering the phone only to be met with silence or a sudden hang-up. This tactic is often used by scammers to identify active phone numbers, which can then be targeted further or sold to other fraudsters.

One user shared their experience: "No one spoke when I answered the call. Instantly blocked. Scam." Another added: "Took me about 10 seconds to answer, there was no noise, then they hung up after 4 seconds."

These silent calls are not just annoying—they’re a red flag. Experts advise against calling back unknown numbers, as they could be linked to premium-rate services designed to drain your wallet.

Blocked, But Not Gone

Despite efforts to block the number, many users report that the calls persist. Some say the scammers simply change a digit in the number and call again, making it difficult to stop them entirely. One frustrated individual wrote: "Constantly calling. My phone flags it as scam or fraud. Block the number, but they just change a digit and call again. 🤬"

This persistence has led to growing frustration among those targeted. One user even pretended to be from Edinburgh Council Trading Standards, causing the caller to hang up immediately. While this provided a moment of satisfaction, it hasn’t stopped the calls from coming.

A Growing Problem

The complaints about 01312048780 are part of a wider issue with nuisance calls and scams in the UK. According to Ofcom, millions of people receive unwanted calls every year, with many falling victim to fraud. The rise of spoofing technology, which allows scammers to disguise their numbers, has made it even harder to tackle the problem.

One user summed up the sentiment of many: "These people need to do one and get a real job instead of scamming people." Another added: "Criminals. Fraudulent scammers. Should be jailed. Blocked. Reported."

What Can You Do?

If you receive a call from 01312048780 or any other suspicious number, here are some steps you can take:

1. Don’t Engage: Avoid giving out personal information or engaging with the caller.
2. Block the Number: Use your phone’s blocking feature to prevent further calls.
3. Report It: Notify your phone provider and report the number to organisations like Action Fraud or the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO).
4. Register with TPS: Ensure your number is registered with the Telephone Preference Service to reduce unsolicited calls.

The Bigger Picture

While blocking and reporting individual numbers can help, experts say more needs to be done to tackle the root of the problem. This includes stricter regulations, better enforcement, and greater public awareness about the tactics used by scammers.

For now, the mystery of 01312048780 continues. Whether it’s fake accident claims, silent calls, or unsolicited energy advice, the number has become a symbol of the growing problem of nuisance calls in the UK. As one user put it: "Someone please shut these people down."

Until then, vigilance is key. If you receive a call from this number—or any other suspicious caller—remember: don’t engage, block, and report.