What Are 0113 Nuisance Calls?
Receiving nuisance calls from 0113 numbers can be frustrating and disruptive. The 0113 area code is assigned to Leeds, but when it comes to nuisance calls, these numbers are often used by callers from anywhere – not just Leeds. Understanding what counts as a nuisance call, the types you might receive, and why 0113 numbers are used can help you protect yourself and take action.
What is a Nuisance Call?
A nuisance call is any unwanted phone call that causes annoyance, inconvenience, or distress. These can range from persistent marketing calls to more serious scam attempts. Nuisance calls are a widespread issue across the UK, and if you want to know more about the general problem and your rights, our page on nuisance calls covers the broader context.
Common Types of 0113 Nuisance Calls
Nuisance calls from 0113 numbers typically fall into a few categories:
Unwanted marketing calls: These are calls trying to sell you products or services you haven’t asked for. They may come from legitimate businesses, but if you’ve registered with the Telephone Preference Service (TPS) or told the caller to stop, such calls can be unlawful under the Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations (PECR).
Scam calls: Fraudsters may use 0113 numbers to impersonate banks, government departments, or utility companies. They often try to obtain your personal or financial information through deception.
Automated or recorded calls (robocalls): These are pre-recorded messages, often promoting products, services, or even fake competitions. Automated calls must have your consent; otherwise, they are generally illegal.
Why Do Nuisance Callers Use 0113 Numbers?
Callers use 0113 numbers because they appear to be local, trustworthy, or familiar – especially if you live in or near Leeds. However, advances in technology mean that the actual caller could be based anywhere in the UK or even overseas. This practice, known as “number spoofing,” is sometimes used to trick people into answering or trusting the call. Nuisance callers may also use other local area codes to achieve the same effect. For example, you might also encounter 0117 nuisance calls (Bristol) or 0116 nuisance calls (Leicester).
How Nuisance Calls Can Affect You
Nuisance calls can have a significant impact on your daily life. They may:
Disturb your work, family time, or sleep
Cause anxiety, especially if the caller is aggressive or threatening
Lead to financial loss if you fall victim to a scam
Make you wary of answering your phone, missing important or genuine calls
The law is on your side. The Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations (PECR) and the Data Protection Act 2018 set strict rules on who can call you and for what purpose. If you continue to receive unwanted calls, you have the right to take steps to stop them and report the issue to the relevant authorities.
For more information about your rights, how to stop these calls, and where to report them, continue exploring our related topics.
Your Legal Rights Regarding 0113 Nuisance Calls
Receiving unwanted calls from 0113 numbers can be frustrating, but you are protected under several UK laws designed to safeguard your privacy and stop nuisance calls. Here’s what you need to know about your legal rights and how you can take action.
Legal Protections Against Nuisance Calls
The main law protecting you from nuisance calls is the Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations (PECR). These regulations make it illegal for businesses or organisations to make unsolicited marketing calls to you if you have told them not to, or if you are registered with the Telephone Preference Service (TPS). Under PECR, companies must have your consent before making marketing calls, and they must stop calling you if you ask them to.
You also have broader protections under the Communications Act 2003 and the Data Protection Act 2018, which require organisations to handle your personal data – including your phone number – lawfully and fairly.
To understand more about your rights regarding nuisance calls in general, visit your rights regarding nuisance calls.
Your Right to Opt Out of Marketing Calls
You have the right to opt out of receiving marketing calls at any time. The simplest way to do this is by registering your number with the TPS, which is free and legally binding for businesses. Once you’re registered, legitimate companies are not allowed to call you for sales or marketing purposes without your explicit consent. For step-by-step guidance on how to opt out of marketing calls, Citizens Advice offers clear instructions and practical tips.
Protection from Scam and Fraudulent Calls
Scam and fraudulent calls – where callers attempt to trick you into giving away money or personal information – are strictly illegal. These calls may come from numbers that appear local, such as 0113, but the caller’s true identity is often hidden. If you receive suspicious calls, you should never share personal or financial details. Report these calls to your phone provider and to relevant authorities to help prevent further scams.
What Counts as Illegal Nuisance Calling?
Not all unwanted calls are illegal, but certain behaviours cross the line. It is illegal to:
Make repeated, unwanted marketing calls after you have asked for them to stop.
Call people who are registered with the TPS without their consent.
Use recorded messages or automated calls for marketing without prior permission.
Make calls that are threatening, abusive, or intended to cause distress or alarm.
Harassing or threatening calls can sometimes overlap with other forms of illegal behaviour, such as prank calling. For more on the legality of prank calls, see our dedicated guide.
Taking Action
If you continue to receive nuisance calls from 0113 numbers, keep a record of the calls, including the date, time, and content. This information will be helpful if you need to make a complaint or report the issue. Remember, you have the right to demand that these calls stop, and there are clear legal steps you can take to protect yourself.
For more advice on stopping nuisance calls and understanding your rights, explore the resources linked above and take action to safeguard your privacy.
How to Stop 0113 Nuisance Calls
How to Stop 0113 Nuisance Calls
Nuisance calls from 0113 numbers can be frustrating and disruptive, but there are effective steps you can take to reduce or block them. Here’s how you can protect yourself and your peace of mind:
1. Use Call Blocking Features
Most modern mobile phones and landlines offer built-in features to block unwanted numbers. If you receive repeated nuisance calls from an 0113 number, add the number to your phone’s blocked list. This prevents future calls or texts from that number.
Many network providers also offer call blocking services. Some allow you to block specific numbers or automatically screen calls that appear suspicious. Check with your provider to see what options are available – these services are often free or included in your plan.
2. Register with the Telephone Preference Service (TPS)
The Telephone Preference Service (TPS) is the UK’s official ‘opt-out’ register for unsolicited sales and marketing calls. By registering your number – whether it’s a landline or mobile – you signal that you do not wish to receive marketing calls. UK law requires legitimate companies to check the TPS register and avoid contacting numbers listed there.
Registering is free and takes only a few minutes. While TPS registration won’t stop all nuisance calls (such as those from scammers or overseas call centres ignoring UK rules), it does reduce the volume of unwanted marketing calls.
3. Handle Suspicious or Scam Calls Safely
If you receive a call that seems suspicious, never share personal or financial information. Scammers may pretend to be from banks, government agencies, or other trusted organisations. If in doubt, hang up and contact the organisation directly using a phone number you trust – not the one provided by the caller.
Other safety tips include:
Don’t engage or press buttons if prompted by a recorded message.
Avoid calling back unknown 0113 numbers, as some scams rely on premium-rate call backs.
Stay calm and don’t be pressured into making quick decisions.
If you think your phone has been compromised – such as after losing it or having it stolen – read our advice on what to do if your mobile phone is lost or stolen to help secure your device and prevent misuse.
4. Know Your Rights and Take Further Action
Under the Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations (PECR), it’s illegal for organisations to make unsolicited marketing calls to numbers registered with the TPS, or to make automated marketing calls without your consent. If you continue to receive nuisance calls despite taking these steps, you have the right to report them.
For a step-by-step guide on how to report and block nuisance calls, including how to escalate complaints to regulators, visit our dedicated resource.
Taking these actions can significantly reduce nuisance calls and help you regain control over your phone. If you’re dealing with persistent issues, don’t hesitate to seek further advice or support.
Reporting 0113 Nuisance Calls
If you’re receiving nuisance calls from 0113 numbers, it’s important to report them. Taking action not only helps protect you but also assists regulators in identifying and stopping those responsible for unwanted calls.
Where and How to Report 0113 Nuisance Calls
You can report nuisance calls from 0113 numbers to two main organisations:
Ofcom: As the UK’s communications regulator, Ofcom investigates issues such as silent calls, abandoned calls, and persistent misuse of phone services. Ofcom also works alongside other agencies to tackle the wider problem of nuisance and scam calls.
Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO): The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) handles complaints about unwanted marketing calls, recorded messages, and spam texts. The ICO enforces laws such as the Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations (PECR), which set rules for organisations making direct marketing calls.
To report a nuisance call, you can visit the relevant regulator’s website and follow their online complaint process. For step-by-step guidance, our page on how to report and block nuisance calls offers practical instructions.
What Information Should You Provide?
When reporting nuisance calls, it’s helpful to gather as much information as possible, including:
The phone number that called you (for example, the 0113 number)
The date and time of the call(s)
The nature of the call (e.g., silent, recorded message, aggressive sales, scam attempt)
The name of the company or individual, if known
Any details about what was said or offered
Whether you have previously asked the caller to stop contacting you
Providing clear and accurate details helps regulators investigate more effectively and take action where necessary.
How Reporting Helps Reduce Nuisance Calls
Reporting nuisance calls plays a vital role in tackling the problem. Regulators use the information to:
Identify patterns and track down persistent offenders
Issue fines or enforcement action against companies breaking the law
Raise awareness of new scams or emerging threats
Improve guidance and support for consumers
By sharing your experience, you contribute to a safer phone environment for everyone.
Additional Support
If your nuisance calls relate to issues with a service you’ve received, you may also want to explore our consumer service complaints procedure for further advice on raising a complaint.
For more detail on your rights and the steps you can take, see the official guidance from Ofcom and the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO). These resources explain the legal protections in place and how your complaint will be handled.
If you want to take immediate action, visit our guide on how to report and block nuisance calls.
Related Nuisance Call Topics
Nuisance calls can come from a wide range of numbers, not just 0113. These unwanted calls may originate from different area codes or use non-geographic prefixes, and the nature of the nuisance – whether it’s spam, scams, or persistent telemarketing – can vary depending on the number type and region.
For example, nuisance calls from 0345 nuisance calls and 0333 nuisance calls often come from organisations using non-geographic numbers, which are commonly used by businesses and call centres across the UK. These numbers are not tied to a specific location, making it harder to identify the caller’s origin.
On the other hand, calls from area codes like 0116 nuisance calls, 0117 nuisance calls, 01202 nuisance calls, 01245 nuisance calls, 01269 nuisance calls, and 01273 nuisance calls are linked to specific UK regions. The types of nuisance calls you receive can differ based on local business activity or targeted scam campaigns in those areas.
Regardless of the number prefix, your rights are protected under laws such as the Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations (PECR) and the Data Protection Act 2018. These laws restrict unsolicited marketing calls and give you the right to report unwanted contact. However, the steps you need to take may differ depending on the type of number and the caller’s tactics.
If you’re experiencing nuisance calls from different area codes or unfamiliar prefixes, it’s important to understand how the issues may vary and what specific actions you can take. We encourage you to explore our related pages for detailed advice tailored to each type of nuisance call:
Learn about 0345 nuisance calls and how to handle calls from non-geographic numbers.
Find out more about 0116 nuisance calls, 0117 nuisance calls, 01202 nuisance calls, 01245 nuisance calls, 01269 nuisance calls, and 01273 nuisance calls for region-specific guidance.
Discover the differences with 0333 nuisance calls and how to report them.
Each page offers practical steps, legal information, and advice on reporting nuisance calls, helping you take control no matter where the calls are coming from. If you’re unsure which number type you’re dealing with, checking the area code or prefix can help you find the most relevant guidance.
Additional Resources and Related Topics
Additional Resources and Related Topics
Understanding and dealing with nuisance calls is just one part of protecting your privacy and personal data. Below, you’ll find further guidance on related topics, including your rights in different settings, what to do if you become a victim of a scam, and the legal implications of unwanted calls.
Privacy and Data Protection Beyond Nuisance Calls
Nuisance calls can be a sign that your personal information is being misused. It’s important to know that your privacy rights extend beyond your home phone or mobile – especially in the workplace. Employers in the UK must follow strict rules under the Data Protection Act 2018 and the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) to safeguard your information. To learn more about your rights at work, including how your data should be handled and what to do if you think your privacy has been breached, see our guide on employee privacy and data protection.
What to Do If You’ve Been Scammed
Nuisance calls sometimes go beyond being a simple annoyance – they can be a gateway to scams. If you’ve shared personal or financial details over the phone and suspect you might be a victim of fraud, it’s crucial to act quickly. Steps include contacting your bank, reporting the incident to Action Fraud, and changing any passwords that may have been compromised. For a detailed checklist and practical advice, visit our page on what to do if you’ve been scammed.
Protecting Your Phone and Personal Data
Taking proactive steps can help reduce the risk of nuisance calls and protect your personal information. Here are some practical tips:
Register your number with the Telephone Preference Service (TPS) to opt out of unsolicited sales calls.
Be cautious about sharing your phone number online or in public places.
Use call-blocking features or apps to filter out unwanted calls.
Regularly update your phone’s security settings and software.
Remember, legitimate organisations should never pressure you into sharing sensitive data over the phone.
Legal Aspects of Prank Calling and Harassment
Not all nuisance calls are attempts to sell or scam – some can be prank calls, which may seem harmless but can cross the line into harassment. In the UK, making repeated or threatening calls can be a criminal offence under the Communications Act 2003 and the Protection from Harassment Act 1997. If you’re unsure about the legal boundaries or want to know more about your options if you’re being targeted, read our article on is prank calling illegal in the UK.
By understanding your rights and knowing where to turn for help, you can take control of your privacy and respond confidently to nuisance calls. For more advice on dealing with unwanted calls, explore the other sections of this page.
