Unwanted Calls and Scams

At Jolliman, your safety and well-being are our top priorities. We understand how frustrating and concerning unwanted calls and scams can be, so we’ve created this guide to help you navigate these issues with confidence.

What Exactly Is a Cold Call?

A cold call is an unsolicited call from a company or individual you’ve never dealt with before. These calls usually involve someone trying to sell you a product or service. While not all cold calls are malicious, they can often be a real headache, especially when they come at inconvenient times.

Common Phone Scams You Should Be Aware Of

It’s important to know the difference between an annoying cold call and a potentially harmful scam. Here are some of the most common scams that you should be on the lookout for:

Banking Scams: Be wary of callers claiming to be from your bank, alerting you to suspicious activity on your account. Remember, your bank will never ask for your PIN, password, or send someone to collect your card.
Police Impersonation Scams: Some scammers pose as police officers investigating criminal activity at your bank. Genuine police will never involve you in such matters or ask for sensitive information over the phone.
Tech Support Scams: Beware of calls warning you about supposed viruses on your computer or mobile device. The caller may try to get you to download software that is actually spyware.
HMRC Scams: HMRC will never call you out of the blue about tax refunds or unpaid taxes. If you receive such a call, it’s almost certainly a scam.
Council Tax Scams: Your local council won’t call you unexpectedly about Council Tax rebates or changes to your property’s tax band.
Compensation Scam Calls: If someone contacts you about an accident you supposedly had, be suspicious. If you were in an accident, it’s best to reach out directly to your insurance company.
Phishing Texts: Don’t click on links in unsolicited texts about account issues or parcel deliveries. These often lead to fake websites designed to steal your personal information.
Telephone Preference Service (TPS) Scams: The TPS is a free service. If someone calls asking for payment to reduce unsolicited calls, it’s a scam.
Pension and Debt Management Scams: Be cautious of unexpected calls or texts offering financial advice or services, especially those related to pensions or debt management.
Investment Scams: If an investment opportunity seems too good to be true, it probably is. Always do thorough research before considering such offers.
Caller ID Spoofing: Scammers can manipulate caller ID to display official phone numbers. Don’t trust a call just because the number looks familiar.

How to Protect Yourself from Scams

At Jolliman, we want you to stay protected. Here are some steps you can take to safeguard yourself:

Never Share Personal Information Over the Phone: If someone asks for your personal details, be cautious. Hang up and call the company directly using a known, trusted number.
Report Suspicious Texts: Forward any dodgy texts to 7726, which is a service designed to report spam.
Be Aware of Line-Holding Scams: Scammers can sometimes keep your line open, so it’s wise to use a different phone or wait 10-15 minutes before making another call if you’re suspicious.
Screen Your Calls: Use an answering machine, voicemail, or caller ID to screen calls.
Consider Call-Blocking Technology: Devices that block unwanted calls can be an effective way to reduce the number of cold calls you receive.
Register with the Telephone Preference Service (TPS): This free service helps to minimise cold calls.
Avoid Clicking on Suspicious Links: If you receive a text or email with a link that seems off, don’t click it.

Where to Seek Help

If you’ve received a suspicious call or text, don’t worry. Here are some places you can turn to for support:

Action Fraud: The UK’s national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime. They can offer advice and take reports of scams.
Your Bank: If you’re concerned about a call regarding your account, call 159 or use the number on the back of your bank card.
Telephone Preference Service (TPS): Register for free to reduce the number of unsolicited calls you receive.

At Jolliman, we’re here to help keep you informed and protected. If you have any questions or concerns about any interaction that sys it is from Jolliman, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our customer service team. Stay vigilant and stay safe!