Reporting a scam call or text feels like it might be pointless - but it isn't. Reports are how networks block malicious numbers, how regulators fine rule-breakers, and how the police build cases against organised fraud. The trick is knowing who to report to, because different bodies handle different things. This guide gives you the exact routes for the UK.
Forward scam texts and calls to 7726
The quickest, most useful first step costs nothing:
- Scam texts: forward the message to 7726 (it spells "SPAM" on a keypad). Your network investigates and can block the sender. You may get a reply asking you to forward the sender's number too.
- Scam calls: you can text the word "call" to 7726, then send the scammer's number when prompted (the exact process varies by network).
This feeds directly into the mobile networks' efforts to shut down scam campaigns, so it's well worth doing even for a single dodgy text.
Report fraud to Action Fraud (or 101 in Scotland)
For an actual scam - an attempt to defraud you, whether or not it succeeded - report to the national fraud reporting centre:
- Action Fraud covers England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Report online or call 0300 123 2040.
- In Scotland, report to Police Scotland on 101.
Include as much detail as you can: the number, the date and time, what was said, any links, and whether you lost money. Even unsuccessful attempts are worth reporting - they help identify patterns and active campaigns.
Report nuisance marketing calls to the ICO
If the problem is unwanted marketing (pushy but not fraudulent) - cold calls and spam texts from companies - that's the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO). The ICO enforces the rules on unsolicited marketing and uses public reports to fine persistent offenders. This is the right route especially if you're registered with the TPS or have asked a company to stop - see how to stop nuisance and cold calls.
Report numbering and CLI problems to Ofcom
Ofcom is the communications regulator. It sets the rules on phone numbering and Caller Line Identification (the caller ID system that scammers abuse through spoofing), and oversees how providers tackle silent and abandoned calls. While you'll usually report individual scams to Action Fraud and 7726, Ofcom is the body behind the wider rules - and the place persistent silent-call problems can be raised.
Other useful reports
- Premium-rate (09) services: complaints about how a premium number is run go to the Phone-paid Services Authority - see 09 premium-rate numbers.
- HMRC-related scams: HMRC asks the public to report suspicious tax calls, texts and emails so they can be investigated.
- Phishing emails: forward to the official Suspicious Email Reporting Service.
- Your bank: if money or banking details are involved, tell your bank immediately and dial 159 to reach them safely.
Quick reference
| What you received | Where to report |
|---|---|
| Scam text | Forward to 7726, then delete |
| Scam call (fraud) | Action Fraud 0300 123 2040 / 101 in Scotland |
| Nuisance marketing call | ICO |
| Silent/abandoned call patterns | Ofcom |
| Premium-rate (09) complaint | Phone-paid Services Authority |
| Money taken / bank details shared | Your bank immediately + dial 159 |
The bottom line
Reporting scams is quick and genuinely effective when it goes to the right place: 7726 for texts and calls, Action Fraud (or 101 in Scotland) for fraud, the ICO for nuisance marketing, and Ofcom for the wider numbering rules. You don't have to have lost anything to report - every report helps networks and regulators shut scammers down faster.
Frequently asked questions
How do I report a scam text?
Forward it free of charge to 7726, which sends it to your mobile network to investigate and block the sender. You may get an automated reply asking for the sender's number. Then delete the text. If you lost money or shared details, also report to Action Fraud.
What number do I call to report a scam?
Report fraud to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 (England, Wales and Northern Ireland) or to Police Scotland on 101 in Scotland. For texts and calls, forward details to 7726. If your money or bank details are involved, call your bank and dial 159.
Is it worth reporting a scam if I didn't lose any money?
Yes. Reports of attempted scams help networks block numbers and let regulators and police spot active campaigns and build cases. Forwarding a single scam text to 7726 or reporting a call to Action Fraud genuinely contributes, even when you weren't caught out.
Who do I report nuisance marketing calls to?
The Information Commissioner's Office (ICO), which enforces the rules on unsolicited marketing calls and texts. Report outright fraud to Action Fraud instead, and silent or abandoned-call patterns to Ofcom.
