Should you call an unknown number back?

An unfamiliar number doesn’t demand an immediate response. Start with the context, then decide your next step.

Were you expecting a call?

Think about recent appointments, deliveries or enquiries. A voicemail or message offers context, but a caller’s claim still needs checking when money, account access or personal information are involved.

Look at the evidence, not a verdict.

A lookup brings together reports and information about a number’s range. Reports describe people’s experiences. Range information describes an allocation. Neither establishes who was speaking on a particular call.

Verify through a separate route.

If someone claims to represent an organisation, end the conversation and use a contact route you already trust. Avoid relying on a number, link or instruction supplied during the unexpected contact.

Add your experience.

If you know what happened, a short report helps someone else understand the picture. Include legitimate calls as well as unwanted ones.

Have a number to check?

Further reading: Ofcom’s guidance on scam calls and messages ↗