UK Telecom Networks: Spam & Nuisance Call Analysis

The Network Breakdown

Not all networks experience spam equally. Based on interception data, we analyzed which UK networks are most frequently targeted by mass auto-dialers and international spam campaigns.

Spam Frequency by Carrier

• O2 & Giffgaff: Highest volume of spam, likely due to historical number recycling and large user bases
• EE: Moderate volume, with a recent spike in highly targeted, spoofed phishing calls rather than blank automated calls
• Vodafone & Three: Lower volume of domestic spam, but a higher incidence of international "wangiri" (one-ring) scams

The Role of Data Brokers

Scammers acquire these numbers through illicit data brokers who scrape public directories, breached databases, and sketchy app permissions. Once a number is verified as active (often by the user answering a blank call), its value on the dark web increases, leading to an immediate surge in "No Caller ID" spam.