By Miss Alexander 
The phone number 02080797549 has been flagged multiple times as a potential scam, specifically targeting individuals with fake claims associated with HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC). This number, a UK-based London landline, has received numerous reports of suspicious activity, and the community has rated it as “Dangerous” based on user feedback. Below, we break down what has been reported and what you should do if you receive a call from this number.
Background on 02080797549
Over time, people across the UK have reported receiving calls from 02080797549, with the majority describing it as a fraudulent attempt to extract sensitive information or money. Callers often impersonate HMRC representatives and use intimidating language to instill fear in their targets, frequently threatening legal action or arrest.
Key Details Reported by the Community
- Call Nature: The call generally comes with a recorded voice (robo-call) claiming to represent HMRC.
- Typical Claims: The voice message warns of unpaid taxes and often threatens legal action, such as an arrest warrant.
- User Ratings: Out of several ratings, this number has consistently been marked as “Dangerous.”
- Common Keywords: Reports frequently mention terms like “Scam,” “HMRC,” “Arrest,” and “Warrant.”
- Reported Incidents: Many individuals shared experiences where they were abruptly hung up on after answering, and others noted attempts to gain personal information.
Understanding the Scam Tactics
The 02080797549 scam is part of a larger network of fraudulent calls targeting individuals in the UK. These scams often rely on scare tactics and official-sounding language to persuade people to divulge personal or financial information. Some hallmarks of this particular type of scam include:
- Robo-Call Messages: The scam typically involves a recorded voice claiming there are unpaid taxes linked to the individual’s identity.
- Threats of Arrest or Warrant: The message may claim there is an active warrant out for the person’s arrest, suggesting urgent action is required.
- Requests for Personal Details: Callers often try to collect sensitive information, including National Insurance numbers, bank account details, or addresses.
Note: HMRC never contacts individuals through recorded messages threatening arrest. If you receive such a call, it is a strong indicator of fraud.
Reports from Real Users
User Report #1
One user who moved from London to South Wales shared that they received a call from 02080797549. When they answered and greeted the caller, the line went silent, and the call was abruptly disconnected. This pattern, where scammers drop the call after the recipient answers, is sometimes used to verify active phone numbers, which are then targeted for further fraudulent attempts.
User Report #2
Another recipient detailed a more direct experience where a recorded voice claimed there were “unpaid taxes” and mentioned an “arrest warrant” associated with their name. This robo-call was persistent, urging the user to press a button to speak with an “officer” to avoid “legal consequences.”
Community Feedback on Caller Rating
The community has rated 02080797549 as dangerous, with multiple users marking it as a scam associated with HMRC fraud. Many who rated it dangerous advised others to avoid answering calls from this number and report it immediately.
Steps to Take if You Receive a Call from 02080797549
If you receive a call from this number, it’s essential to stay calm and avoid engaging. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do if 02080797549 contacts you:
- Do Not Answer Unknown Numbers: If you don’t recognize a number, it’s safer to let it go to voicemail. Scammers often rely on quick answers to start their schemes.
- Listen Carefully, Do Not Share Information: If you do answer and the caller claims to be from HMRC, don’t give away any personal information. HMRC will never request sensitive information over the phone, especially in this manner.
- Report the Call: You can report suspicious calls directly to Action Fraud or HMRC. Providing them with the number, call details, and any messages received will help them track and potentially block these scams.
- Action Fraud: Report here to the UK’s National Fraud & Cyber Crime Reporting Centre.
- HMRC: HMRC has its own reporting form for fraudulent calls on their website.
- Block the Number: Blocking the number on your device can help prevent repeat calls. Although scammers often use multiple numbers, blocking them can minimize nuisance calls.
- Educate Others: Many people fall victim to these scams simply because they don’t know what to look out for. Share your experience with friends and family to help them stay vigilant.
How to Identify a Genuine HMRC Call
HMRC contacts taxpayers occasionally but in a manner very different from these scam calls. Here are some indicators of legitimate HMRC communication:
- Professional Language: HMRC will not use aggressive or threatening language. Calls from HMRC are polite, clear, and follow protocol.
- Direct Mail First: In most cases, HMRC will contact you through a formal letter if there are any tax issues.
- Clear Caller Verification: HMRC will provide clear ways to verify their identity, often giving you a callback number that can be found on the official HMRC website.
- No Immediate Threats or Demands: HMRC does not operate on “immediate action” demands, like threats of arrest for unpaid taxes over the phone.
Warning Signs of a Scam Call
Being familiar with the red flags of a scam call can save you and others from becoming victims. Here’s what to look for:
- Unknown Numbers Claiming Urgency: Scammers rely on urgency to prevent you from thinking critically about the call. Immediate threats of arrest or fines are often false.
- Automated Messages with Options: A call with an automated voice urging you to “press a button” is generally a sign of a scam.
- Requests for Personal or Financial Information: Genuine agencies like HMRC will never ask for personal details, such as bank accounts or passwords, over the phone.
- Inconsistent or Poor Grammar: Scam calls can sometimes reveal their fraudulent nature through poorly constructed messages or inconsistent language.
Final Thoughts
Receiving a call from 02080797549 can be distressing, especially with intimidating claims of unpaid taxes and arrest warrants. Remember, HMRC does not use recorded messages or threats over the phone. Always exercise caution and report suspicious calls to Action Fraud or directly to HMRC. Blocking this number and educating others will also help reduce the impact of such scams.
By staying vigilant and spreading awareness, we can help others recognize and report scams like these, making it harder for fraudsters to succeed. Be cautious, informed, and proactive, and you’ll be well-prepared to handle calls from numbers like 02080797549 safely.