MALICIOUS CALLS

The U.K. Home & Business Security Advisor

 Malicious 'Phone Calls

Heavy breathing - Obscenities - Silence - Threats - Practical jokes

None of these should be tolerated. Here's what to do...

  • DON'T... Blow whistles or activate shriek alarms down the line.

This may cause damage to the exchange equipment. It might also damage the hearing of your caller. "Oh Shame!" I hear you say; but just remember that if that happened, you could be sued for £thousands and the caller will probably get off scot free! 

  • DON'T... Talk to the caller

This will only encourage the person to "crank-up" the pressure.

  • DON'T... Get hysterical, cry or scream down the 'phone.

The caller wants, indeed NEEDS, a reaction. Deprive them of their "fix"
  • DO... Contact the police if you receive a malicious call

Do not wait for your 3rd, 4th or 5th call. Inform the police after your first call.

  • DO... Contact the BT Malicious Calls Bureau.

Specialst operators will work with you to tackle the problem. In extreme cases they will work with the police. You can find the number below

  • DO... Keep a diary of calls

Include the date, time and exact content (and I mean the EXACT words spoken, even if it embarrasses you or makes you feel uncomfortable).

  • DO... Keep calm and simply hang-up.

It's very likely that the caller will keep calling back. You need to remain strong and in control. If you disconnect the phone, the caller will probably keep trying until he gets a reply. By quietly just hanging up each time, he will eventually give up.

  • DO Dial 1471

However, the caller will probably have barred their number, but it's worth a try.
  • CONSIDER... Call-barring

It is possible to bar incoming calls where the caller's number is withheld. There is a downside however, in that calls routed via a switchboard will be barred also, because the originator's number will not be known. This means that calls from legitimate organisations such as your bank or a family member's place of work will not get through.

  • CONSIDER... Buying or renting a caller display unit

This will display the number of every call you receive. This allows you to choose whether or not to answer it.

Useful BT Numbers

Call 150 (Free of Charge)

Customer Service Advisors will offer simple advice, depending on the problem you have.

Call Advice line (Freefone) 0800 666 700

24hr help-line giving information about how to deal with unwanted calls.

Call the Malicious Calls Bureau (Freefone) 0800 661 441

Trained investigators will use their specialist knowledge and experience to work with you to tackle the problem.

Making malicious telephone calls is an offence for which offenders can be prosecuted.

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