Many UK households register their landline numbers with the Telephone Preference Service (TPS), expecting to eliminate nuisance and spam calls. Yet, for countless people, the calls don’t stop. Why does this happen, and what can you do about it?
In this blog, we’ll explore why spam calls continue despite TPS, common loopholes scammers exploit, and practical steps to cut them off.
Why Do Spam Calls Still Get Through After Registering with TPS?
The TPS blocks legitimate UK telemarketing calls, but it cannot stop every type of nuisance call. Here’s why:
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Overseas calls: Many scams originate abroad, beyond UK regulations.
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Criminals ignore the law: Fraudsters simply don’t comply with TPS rules.
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Survey and market research calls: These are often exempt from TPS restrictions.
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Existing business relationships: Companies you’ve dealt with may still call unless you opt out directly.
This explains why people continue to receive scam calls despite TPS registration.
Summary: TPS reduces telemarketing calls, but overseas scammers, lawbreakers, exemptions, and existing business contacts mean spam calls still reach UK landlines.
How Do Criminals Bypass the Do Not Call List in the UK?
Fraudsters use tricks to dodge regulations:
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Caller ID spoofing: Making their number look local or even like a trusted organisation.
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Overseas call centres: Operating outside UK jurisdiction.
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Pretending to run surveys: Masking scams as “research” calls.
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Persistence: Even when blocked, scammers rotate numbers and call again.
For example, a common scam involves spoofing a bank’s number so the call appears genuine, bypassing TPS protections.
Summary: UK scammers bypass TPS by spoofing numbers, calling from overseas, posing as researchers, and rotating phone lines.
What Can You Do to Stop Spam Calls on UK Landlines?
While TPS is a helpful first step, additional measures are key:
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Use a call blocker device: Tools like CPR Call Blocker can screen and block unwanted calls.
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Report calls: Share details with Action Fraud or the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO).
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Opt out directly: Tell legitimate businesses you don’t want further calls.
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Avoid engagement: Don’t answer questions or press numbers when prompted.
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Stay alert: Never share personal or financial details on unexpected calls.
Summary: To stop UK spam calls, combine TPS with call blockers, reporting scams, opting out directly, and refusing to engage with suspicious callers.
Conclusion
Being on the TPS doesn’t guarantee freedom from nuisance calls, but combining awareness, reporting, and call-blocking devices offers stronger protection.
Explore our range of call blockers to protect your home.
FAQs
Q: Does TPS stop all nuisance calls in the UK?
A: No, it only stops legitimate telemarketing, not overseas scams or fraudsters.
Q: Can call blockers really help reduce UK spam calls?
A: Yes, they block unwanted numbers and stop repeat offenders.
Q: How do I report spam calls in the UK?
A: Report them to Action Fraud or the ICO.
Q: Are elderly people more at risk?
A: Yes, older adults are often targeted by scammers who exploit trust.
