01204913202 is a UK landline number registered in the Bolton area. While it is geographically legitimate, it has been widely reported by users for spam, telemarketing, and potential scam calls. The calls often involve pre-recorded messages, requests for personal information, or aggressive attempts to sell products or services. It’s recommended to verify the caller independently, avoid sharing personal details, and block the number if suspicious.
01204913202 is frequently linked to unsolicited calls in the UK. Users report receiving fraudulent or telemarketing calls, sometimes during evenings or weekends, often with automated messages claiming urgent account issues or prize notifications. While the number may belong to legitimate businesses, scammers can use caller ID spoofing to make it appear local.
Introduction: Understanding 01204913202
Receiving a call from an unknown number can be confusing, especially when the number, like 01204913202, appears local. Many people in the UK have reported unsolicited calls from this number, prompting concerns about whether it is spam, scam, or a legitimate business contact. Understanding the nature of these calls, recognizing potential risks, and knowing how to respond is essential in protecting your personal and financial information. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of 01204913202, including its origin, types of calls, reported user experiences, and actionable steps to handle suspicious calls safely.
Origin and Details of 01204913202
The number 01204913202 is a UK landline registered in the Bolton area, Greater Manchester. Numbers starting with 01204 are allocated to this region, which covers Bolton and surrounding towns. While this number is legitimate in telecom records, multiple reports indicate it is frequently used for unsolicited or potentially fraudulent calls. The caller could be a debt collection agency, telemarketing firm, automated spam service, or fraudster using caller ID spoofing. Many calls involve pre-recorded messages or attempts to collect sensitive information from the recipient, making it crucial to approach such calls with caution.
Common Types of Calls from 01204913202
Telemarketing calls often attempt to sell products or services, and while some may be legitimate, repeated unsolicited calls are considered spam. Reports also indicate that 01204913202 is associated with scams, including false claims about overdue bills, threats of legal action, and requests for banking or personal information. Some calls use pre-recorded messages alerting the recipient to “account issues” or “prize notifications,” urging them to call back immediately.
- Recognize scam calls by checking for urgency or pressure tactics.
- Avoid providing personal or financial information over the phone.
These methods are common tactics used by fraudsters to manipulate recipients into revealing sensitive data.
How to Identify a Scam Call
Recognizing a scam call is essential for protecting yourself. Calls that create urgency, demand personal or financial information, or appear local but display suspicious behavior are all red flags. Offers that seem too good to be true should be treated cautiously. If you receive a call from 01204913202, verify the caller independently before providing any information. Consider ignoring or blocking numbers if the behavior seems suspicious.
- Verify the caller independently using official contact channels.
- Use call-blocking apps or services to prevent repeated harassment.
Being vigilant and aware of common tactics is the most effective method to prevent falling victim to scams.
Reported User Experiences
Many users have shared experiences with 01204913202 on online forums and reporting platforms. Calls often occur during evenings and weekends, use robotic or pre-recorded messages, and attempt to collect personal or financial information. Repeated harassment is commonly reported, even by those registered with the Telephone Preference Service (TPS). Some calls appear local but engage in suspicious behaviors, including aggressive attempts to obtain sensitive information.
Table 1 – User Complaint Summary
| Complaint Type | Frequency Reported | User Experience Example |
| Automated Calls | High | Robotic voice about “account issues” |
| Personal Information Requests | Medium | Asked for bank account or NI number |
| Harassment/Repeated Calls | High | Multiple calls per day/week |
| Telemarketing Offers | Medium | Selling insurance or financial products |
| Caller ID Spoofing Suspected | Medium | Appears local but suspicious behavior |
How to Protect Yourself
Protection begins with not engaging with unknown callers and verifying any organization claiming to contact you. Do not rely on contact details provided during unsolicited calls. Smartphones and landlines allow users to block unwanted numbers, while applications like Truecaller or Hiya provide additional security through automatic call screening. Regularly updating these apps ensures access to the latest databases of known spam numbers. Verification, caution, and proactive blocking are key strategies to safeguard your personal information.
What to Do If You’ve Engaged
If you have inadvertently shared personal information with 01204913202, immediate action is required. Cease all communication with the caller and monitor your bank accounts and credit reports for unusual activity. Contact your bank or financial institution to discuss protective measures, such as changing passwords, PINs, or account numbers if necessary. Reporting the incident to Action Fraud UK helps authorities track scam activity and prevent harm to others.
- Contact your bank immediately to flag potential fraud.
- Report the incident to Action Fraud UK for further investigation.
Swift and decisive action can mitigate financial and identity risks effectively.
Tools and Resources for Verification
Various tools are available for verifying unknown numbers and preventing spam calls. Who-Called.co.uk provides a database of user-reported scam numbers. Truecaller offers real-time alerts and blocking options. Action Fraud UK serves as the official reporting platform for fraud, though it does not block calls. The Telephone Preference Service (TPS) reduces marketing calls but may not prevent all scam attempts. Using these resources in combination provides comprehensive protection against suspicious calls.
Table 2 – Comparison of Verification Tools
| Tool/Service | Primary Use | Pros | Cons |
| Who-Called.co.uk | Spam/Scam reports | Free database, user feedback | Limited real-time info |
| Truecaller | Caller identification | Real-time alerts, app-based | Requires app install |
| Action Fraud | Fraud reporting | Official UK authority | Does not block calls |
| TPS Registration | Reduce marketing calls | Free registration | Does not stop scams |
Tips to Avoid Future Scams
Avoid sharing personal or financial information over the phone and use spam detection apps to screen unknown numbers. Regularly review bank and credit card statements for suspicious activity. Educate family members, particularly elderly relatives, about common scam tactics. Keeping devices and software updated also helps prevent phishing attacks. Staying vigilant is the best strategy to prevent future engagements with numbers like 01204913202.
- Always confirm callers through official channels.
- Use call-blocking apps and TPS registration to reduce unwanted calls.
Conclusion
While 01204913202 is a geographically legitimate UK number registered in Bolton, many reports indicate it is frequently used for spam or scam calls. Maintaining vigilance, verifying unknown callers, and using tools like Truecaller, Who-Called, and Action Fraud reporting are essential steps to protect personal and financial information. Avoid sharing sensitive details with unsolicited callers, monitor accounts regularly, and report suspicious activity to ensure safety.
FAQs
- Is 01204913202 a scam number?
While the number is valid, many reports indicate it is used for spam or scam calls. - Can I block 01204913202?
Yes, via smartphone settings, call-blocking apps, or carrier services. - How do I verify the caller?
Independently contact the organization using official numbers. - Should I answer calls from unknown numbers?
Avoid answering unless you expect the call from a legitimate source. - What should I do if I shared personal information?
Contact your bank, monitor accounts, and report to Action Fraud UK.
