If you’ve received calls from the number 01135418226, you’re not alone. This number has garnered significant attention, primarily due to its persistent calling and the nature of its interactions. Below, we’ll explore the context surrounding this number, the experiences shared by others, the potential risks, and what you can do to safeguard yourself from such calls.
What is 01135418226?
The number 01135418226 appears to be linked to unsolicited and potentially harmful activity. It has been described by users as a cold caller focusing on topics such as home insulation. Despite being on the Telephone Preference Service (TPS), which is designed to protect users from unwanted marketing calls, individuals have reported continuous harassment.
Key User Experiences:
- Constant Calling Without Leaving a Voicemail
Many users have reported that the number keeps calling repeatedly without leaving any voicemail. This behaviour is often linked to spam calls, aiming to push the receiver to pick up out of curiosity or concern. - Cold Caller on Insulation
One user highlighted receiving a call about insulation services, which they explicitly declined. Despite mentioning their TPS registration, the caller disconnected abruptly. - General Frustration
Users expressed frustration over such calls, questioning why high-tech companies cannot remove such numbers or prevent unscrupulous activities. - Danger Rating
Based on reviews, the number has been labeled as Dangerous, indicating potential risks associated with engaging with these calls.
Why is This Problematic?
Receiving unsolicited calls can be more than just an annoyance, it may indicate exposure to scams or fraudulent activities. Such calls often target individuals to:
- Gather personal information.
- Push unnecessary services under false pretenses.
- Trick recipients into revealing sensitive details.
These practices can lead to financial loss, identity theft, or unauthorized use of personal data.
What Can You Do?
If you’re receiving calls from 01135418226, here are steps to protect yourself:
1. Don’t Answer Calls from Unknown Numbers
If you don’t recognize the number, let it go to voicemail. Legitimate callers typically leave a message, while spammers rarely do.
2. Block the Number
Most smartphones allow you to block specific numbers:
- For Android: Go to your call log, tap the number, and select Block/Report spam.
- For iPhone: Open the Phone app, tap the number, and select Block this Caller.
Blocking prevents further calls from the same number.
3. Report the Number
If you believe the calls violate regulations, report the number to relevant authorities:
- In the UK: Contact the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) via their website or call 0303 123 1113.
- In the USA: Report the number to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) through their online portal.
4. Register with the Telephone Preference Service (TPS)
In the UK, the TPS allows you to opt out of unsolicited sales or marketing calls. If you’re already registered but still receive calls, report the number to the TPS for further investigation.
5. Use Call-Blocking Apps
Apps like Truecaller or Hiya can help identify and block spam numbers before they reach you. These apps maintain a database of known spam callers and can provide warnings.
Why Do These Calls Keep Happening?
1. Loopholes in Regulations
While systems like the TPS aim to prevent unwanted calls, not all companies comply. Many cold callers operate from overseas or exploit grey areas in regulations to bypass restrictions.
2. Technology
Advancements in technology have made it easy for scammers to spoof numbers or automate calls. This makes it challenging for individuals to distinguish between legitimate and fraudulent callers.
3. Data Breaches
If your number has been involved in a data breach, it could end up on lists sold to telemarketing companies or fraudsters. Always ensure your information is secure and be cautious about sharing your number online.
User Comments and Experiences
Here are real user comments about calls from 01135418226, providing a clearer picture of the problem:
- “Keeps constantly calling, never leave voicemail. Blocked.”
This comment reflects the frustration of repeated harassment without any legitimate purpose. - “Pls can this type of contact be removed from the high-tech companies. Why do we have such dreadful activity from unscrupulous people?”
A valid point highlighting the need for stricter regulations and advanced tools to curb such activity. - “Cold caller. Call was regarding insulation. I told them not to call me again and that I’m on the TPS, they hang up.”
This demonstrates the blatant disregard some companies have for rules and user preferences.
How to Identify Scam Calls
Some signs that a call might be a scam include:
- Pressure to Act Quickly
Scammers often use urgency to pressure you into making hasty decisions. - Unsolicited Services
Offers for insulation, energy deals, or free upgrades without prior inquiry are red flags. - Requests for Personal Information
Legitimate companies rarely ask for sensitive details over the phone unless you initiated the contact. - Spoofed Numbers
If the caller ID seems local but their approach feels unprofessional or pushy, it might be a spoofed number.
What High-Tech Companies Can Do
The increasing frequency of such calls raises questions about the responsibility of telecom and tech companies. Here’s what they can do:
- Improved Call Screening Technologies
Companies can develop tools that automatically flag and block spam numbers. - Stronger Enforcement of Regulations
By collaborating with authorities, companies can ensure compliance and penalize offenders. - Educating Users
Providing users with resources to recognize and avoid scams is crucial in reducing the impact of such calls.
Conclusion
Receiving calls from numbers like 01135418226 is not just a minor annoyance, it can expose you to risks if mishandled. By taking proactive steps to block, report, and avoid such calls, you can protect yourself and others from falling victim to these tactics.
If you’re continually facing issues, consider discussing them with your telecom provider, as they might offer additional tools or advice tailored to your situation.
