Warning Over Scam Calls Linked to 01217200195

Increasing Complaints

A spate of complaints from the public has emerged regarding phone number 01217200195, which many identify as a number linked to dubious solicitation practices. People who have received calls from this number are speaking out about their negative experiences, with many confirming that the caller claims to be from a company named “Caterpillar Advice Services.”

A common thread within the comments is that most of these calls involve inquiries about car accidents that the recipients have not experienced. One user recounted their frustrating interaction, stating, “I had someone on the line who could barely speak English, insisting I had been in an accident. When I told her I hadn’t, she simply refused to remove my number from their system.” The sentiment of being targeted by a persistent scam is echoed throughout several user reports.

A Call for Action

Many commentators are urging others to report this number to the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO). A user remarked, “Scammers don’t care if you post here, but they do worry when they’re reported to the ICO, which takes just a minute or two.” It appears that the frustration surrounding these calls is compounded by a feeling of powerlessness at how often they occur.

The user continued to point out that phone companies may not be as concerned about these issues, asserting, “They get to sell you caller ID and increase their revenue for call blocking.” This highlights a growing sense of mistrust towards telecom providers, as users feel their concerns may simply be ignored in the pursuit of profit.

Personal Stories Highlight Risks

In one alarming account, a Hungarian colleague was bewilderedly targeted by the same number. "He was a passenger injured in a car accident and, not understanding English, thought it was a bona-fide call. Some time later, he received a meagre £1,950 compensation cheque from Newgate Solicitors, seemingly tied up with the infamous Caterpillar Advice Services,” recounted a concerned commentator. This story raises important questions about the potential exploitation of vulnerable individuals in similar situations.

Another poster working in a laboratory shared their annoyance, expressing that they were in the middle of essential work when the unsolicited call came in, stating, “Fortunately, I ignored it, but now that I know who they are, I’ve blocked the number. There really needs to be more robust legislation against these people.”

General Consensus

Multiple reports suggest that the first call often starts with a robot voice, likely pre-screening calls before a live person comes on. They usually follow a script about compensation claims, aimed at tricking individuals into participating in potentially fraudulent scenarios. This common tactic frustrates many, leading a user to confirm explicitly, “Never answer. It’s just a scam.”

Overall, the messages from the public reflect concern, frustration, and a desire for protective legislation against such scams. Conversations continue to be sparked on forums and social media, as individuals share their ongoing experiences with 01217200195 and similar numbers. It appears that until action is taken, consumers may continue to face these unwelcome and intrusive calls.