Understanding 0345 Numbers and Nuisance Calls
Understanding 0345 Numbers and Nuisance Calls
0345 numbers are a type of non-geographic phone number in the UK. Unlike traditional landline numbers, 0345 numbers aren’t tied to a specific location. They are often used by businesses, government departments, banks, and customer service lines because they allow organisations to have a single national number that’s easy for people to remember and call. Calls to 0345 numbers are usually charged at the same rate as calling a standard geographic number (such as those starting with 01 or 02) and are often included in most mobile and landline call packages.
What Are Nuisance Calls?
Nuisance calls are unwanted phone calls that can disrupt your day, invade your privacy, and sometimes even cause distress. These might include unsolicited marketing calls, silent calls, recorded messages, or persistent calls from unknown or suspicious sources. While many companies use 0345 numbers for legitimate reasons, some organisations and scammers also use them to make nuisance calls. This is because 0345 numbers appear professional and trustworthy, making it easier for callers to hide their real identity or location.
Why Are 0345 Numbers Used for Nuisance Calls?
Scammers and nuisance callers often choose 0345 numbers because they look official and are less likely to be blocked or ignored compared to unfamiliar international or withheld numbers. By using a number format that is widely used by reputable companies, they can trick people into answering the call or believing the caller is genuine.
How to Identify Nuisance Calls from 0345 Numbers
It can be difficult to tell if a call from a 0345 number is legitimate or a nuisance. However, there are some common warning signs:
Unexpected contact: You receive a call from a company or organisation you haven’t dealt with before.
Requests for personal information: The caller asks for sensitive details, such as your bank account number, passwords, or PIN.
Pressure tactics: The caller tries to rush you into making a decision, such as paying a bill or providing information.
Recorded messages: You hear a pre-recorded message prompting you to press a number or call back.
Frequent or repeated calls: You get persistent calls from the same number, even after asking them to stop.
If you experience any of these signs, it’s important to be cautious. Never give out personal or financial information unless you are certain who you are speaking to.
Why Are Nuisance Calls a Problem?
Nuisance calls can be more than just an annoyance. They can lead to:
Harassment and stress: Repeated unwanted calls can cause anxiety and disrupt your daily life.
Scams and fraud: Some nuisance calls are designed to trick you into giving away personal details or money.
Loss of trust: Receiving scam calls from numbers that look official can make it harder to trust genuine organisations.
The UK has strict rules to protect consumers from nuisance calls. The Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations (PECR) and the Data Protection Act 2018 set out how organisations can use your personal data for marketing and require them to respect your wishes if you ask not to be contacted. The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) is responsible for enforcing these laws and can take action against companies that break the rules.
If you want to learn more about your general rights and how to deal with unwanted calls, see our main guide on nuisance calls. You may also be interested in how similar issues arise with 0333 nuisance calls, which are another type of non-geographic number used in the UK.
Understanding how 0345 numbers work and being able to spot the signs of nuisance calls can help you stay safe and take action if you’re affected.
Your Legal Rights Against 0345 Nuisance Calls
Receiving nuisance calls from 0345 numbers can be frustrating, but you are protected by clear UK laws designed to stop unwanted, harassing, or scam calls. Understanding your legal rights is the first step to taking action.
Laws Protecting You from Nuisance Calls
Two main laws in the UK protect you from nuisance calls:
The Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations (PECR): These regulations make it illegal for organisations to make unsolicited marketing calls to you if you have told them not to, or if you have registered with the Telephone Preference Service (TPS). PECR also covers automated calls, texts, and emails.
The Communications Act 2003: This law prohibits persistent misuse of public electronic communications networks, including making repeated or offensive calls. It gives Ofcom the power to take action against companies or individuals who break these rules.
For a broader overview of your rights regarding nuisance calls, visit our main guidance page.
Your Right to Stop Nuisance Calls
You have the right to tell any company or organisation to stop calling you. Once you make your preferences clear – either directly to the caller or by registering with the TPS – they must respect your wishes. If they continue, they are breaking the law. This applies to both live sales calls and automated marketing messages.
If you receive calls that ignore your stated preferences, you can report them to the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) or Ofcom. These regulators have the authority to investigate and fine organisations that breach the rules.
What Counts as Harassment?
Legally, harassment involves repeated or unwanted contact that causes you distress or alarm. In the context of nuisance calls, this can mean:
Receiving persistent calls after asking the caller to stop
Calls made at inappropriate times, such as late at night
Threatening, abusive, or offensive language during calls
Harassment by phone is taken seriously under UK law and can be a criminal offence. If you feel threatened or intimidated, you should contact the police. For more on the legal boundaries of phone behaviour, see Is prank calling illegal in the UK?
What Callers Are Not Allowed to Do
There are strict limits on what callers can do:
No marketing calls if you’ve opted out: If you have said “no” to marketing or registered with the TPS, it is illegal for companies to continue contacting you for sales or promotions.
No misleading or scam calls: It is against the law to mislead people, impersonate legitimate organisations, or attempt to obtain money or information fraudulently over the phone.
No persistent or offensive calls: Repeatedly calling someone with the intent to annoy, alarm, or harass is illegal.
If you believe a caller has broken these rules, keep a record of the calls, including dates, times, and what was said. This evidence can help authorities take action.
Understanding your rights and the laws that protect you puts you in a strong position to deal with 0345 nuisance calls. For more information on taking practical steps, see our main page on your rights regarding nuisance calls.
How to Identify and Avoid 0345 Nuisance Calls
Receiving nuisance calls from 0345 numbers can be frustrating, and in some cases, may even be a sign of a scam. Here’s how you can recognise these unwanted calls, protect your personal information, and avoid unnecessary costs.
Recognising Nuisance Calls
Nuisance calls often have certain tell-tale signs. Be cautious if you notice any of the following:
Unexpected Calls: If you receive a call from a company or organisation you don’t recognise, especially if you haven’t given them your number.
Pressure Tactics: Callers who urge you to make quick decisions, share personal details, or transfer money should be treated with suspicion.
Requests for Sensitive Information: Legitimate organisations will rarely ask for your full bank details, passwords, or PINs over the phone.
Pre-recorded Messages: Automated or “robocalls” that ask you to press a button or call back can be a red flag.
Too-Good-to-Be-True Offers: Promises of prizes, compensation, or investment opportunities are common scam tactics.
For more detailed advice, see our tips on spotting scams.
Protecting Your Personal Information
Never share personal or financial information with a caller unless you are absolutely sure of their identity. If you’re unsure, hang up and contact the organisation directly using a phone number from their official website or correspondence. If you’re in doubt, you can check if something might be a scam before taking any further action.
Checking Call Costs for 0345 Numbers
While 0345 numbers are not premium-rate, the cost to call them can vary depending on your phone provider and whether you’re calling from a landline or mobile. To avoid unexpected charges, always check how much a call will cost before returning a call to an unfamiliar 0345 number. Many providers include 0345 numbers in their inclusive minutes, but it’s best to confirm.
When to Hang Up or Block a Number
If a call feels suspicious or makes you uncomfortable, trust your instincts. Hang up immediately if:
The caller refuses to identify themselves or gives vague answers.
You’re being asked for sensitive information.
The call is aggressive or threatening.
Most smartphones allow you to block numbers easily. Blocking persistent nuisance callers can help prevent further disruption. If nuisance calls continue, you may wish to report them to the relevant authorities or your phone provider.
By staying alert and following these steps, you can reduce your risk of falling victim to nuisance calls and scams. If you think you’ve been targeted, don’t hesitate to seek further help or advice.
Steps to Stop and Report 0345 Nuisance Calls
Receiving nuisance calls from 0345 numbers can be frustrating and intrusive. Fortunately, there are clear steps you can take to block these calls, report them to the right authorities, and protect yourself from further unwanted contact. Below, you’ll find practical advice and guidance on how to deal with 0345 nuisance calls in the UK.
Block Unwanted 0345 Calls
The first step in stopping nuisance calls is to block them. Most modern smartphones allow you to block individual numbers directly from your call log. Simply tap the number, look for the option to block, and confirm your choice. If you’re using a landline, many handsets have built-in call-blocking features, or you can purchase a call-blocking device.
Your phone service provider may also offer services to block nuisance calls. Contact your provider to ask about their call-blocking options – some offer this service for free, while others may charge a small fee. For more detailed, step-by-step guidance, see our page on how to report and block nuisance calls in the UK.
Report Nuisance Calls to Authorities
Reporting nuisance calls helps authorities track and take action against persistent offenders. In the UK, Ofcom regulates communications and investigates complaints about nuisance calls. You can learn more about how to protect yourself and report these calls by visiting Ofcom. Ofcom provides guidance on reducing unwanted calls and what steps to take if you continue to receive them.
If the calls involve unwanted marketing or your personal data is being misused, you can also report them to the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO). The ICO enforces rules under the Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations 2003 (PECR), which restrict unsolicited marketing calls and require organisations to respect your preferences.
Report Scams and Fraud
If you suspect a call from a 0345 number is a scam – such as someone pretending to be from your bank or another trusted organisation – report it to Action Fraud, the UK’s national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime. Reporting scams helps protect others and may assist authorities in tackling fraudsters.
You can also raise concerns with other consumer protection agencies if you believe your rights have been breached. For more information on making a formal complaint, refer to our consumer service complaints procedure.
Keep Records of Calls and Complaints
It’s important to keep a detailed log of nuisance calls you receive. Note the date, time, number, and any details about the call, such as what was said. This information can be vital evidence if you need to escalate your complaint to authorities or take further legal action.
When you make a complaint – whether to your service provider, Ofcom, the ICO, or Action Fraud – keep copies of all correspondence and reference numbers. This will help you track progress and support your case if the issue continues.
By following these steps, you can take control of unwanted 0345 calls and ensure your rights are protected. For further tips and detailed advice, visit Ofcom](https://www.ofcom.org.uk/phones-and-broadband/unwanted-calls-and-messages/protecting-yourself-from-nuisance-calls-and-messages) or our guide on [how to report and block nuisance calls in the UK. If you need to escalate your concerns, our consumer service complaints procedure can guide you through the process.
Related Nuisance Call Numbers and Further Information
Nuisance calls are not limited to 0345 numbers – many different area codes and number types can be used by unwanted callers. Understanding the full range of nuisance call numbers can help you recognise potential scams, protect your personal information, and take the right steps to stop these calls.
Common Nuisance Call Area Codes
Some of the most frequently reported nuisance calls in the UK come from numbers starting with:
01273 nuisance calls: Often reported for unsolicited sales or scam attempts.
01269 nuisance calls: Known for persistent unwanted marketing calls.
0117 nuisance calls: Linked to both commercial and fraudulent activity.
0116 nuisance calls: Frequently associated with cold calls and robocalls.
01202 nuisance calls: Commonly used for unsolicited surveys or prize scams.
0113 nuisance calls: Reported for both nuisance marketing and scam operations.
01245 nuisance calls: Includes a range of nuisance and suspicious call types.
Exploring these pages will give you detailed information about each number type, typical tactics used, and specific advice on how to deal with calls from those areas.
Why It’s Important to Recognise All Types of Nuisance Calls
Nuisance callers frequently change their numbers and may use different area codes to bypass call-blocking or appear more trustworthy. They may impersonate local businesses, government agencies, or even your own bank. By familiarising yourself with various nuisance call patterns – not just those from 0345 numbers – you’ll be better equipped to spot and avoid scams.
Under UK law, including the Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations (PECR) and the Data Protection Act 2018, you have the right to privacy and protection from unsolicited marketing calls. These laws require organisations to gain your consent before contacting you for marketing purposes and provide clear ways to opt out.
Explore Further for Complete Protection
To build a comprehensive understanding and strengthen your defences against nuisance calls, we encourage you to explore our detailed guides on 01273 nuisance calls, 01269 nuisance calls, 0117 nuisance calls, 0116 nuisance calls, 01202 nuisance calls, 0113 nuisance calls, and 01245 nuisance calls. Each section offers practical tips, legal information, and step-by-step advice tailored to calls from those specific numbers.
By staying informed about all types of nuisance calls, you can take effective action to protect yourself, your family, and your community from unwanted and potentially harmful phone contact.
