{
  "id": 9320250,
  "title": "Getting an unusual amount of spam calls and messages? You’re not alone — Here’s what we know and what you can do",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/23/getting-an-unusual-amount-of-spam-calls-and-messages-youre-not-alone",
  "topic": "tech",
  "section": "Tech",
  "published": "2026-09-23T11:00:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "TechRadar",
    "slug": "techradar",
    "url": "https://www.techradar.com/pro/getting-an-unusual-amount-of-spam-calls-and-messages-youre-not-alone-heres-what-we-know-and-what-you-can-do"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Spam calls and messages have become a common occurrence for many people in the UK, with a sudden increase in such incidents. Scammers use various tactics to trick their victims. One common method is to ask the recipient to add a number on WhatsApp, bypassing spam filters and enabling scammers to pass on malicious files or links. These calls may also pretend to be job offers or task scams, where victims are promised rewards for completing tasks, but instead, their financial information is stolen. Another tactic involves automated calls that employ voice-recognition systems to trick financial institutions and banks. These calls often involve fake representatives of companies offering introductory pricing or offers, asking for personal information to trick the victim. Scammers may pose as immigration officials or use voice-over-IP (VoIP) services to make international calls appear local. To stay safe, it's essential not to answer suspicious calls or hang up if a call seems spammy. Instead, set up call screening on your phone to verify the legitimacy of unknown callers.",
  "summary": "UK spam calls are getting out of control, here's how to stay safe",
  "key_points": [
    "Spam calls and messages have surged in the UK recently",
    "Scammers use job offers, task scams, and VoIP services",
    "Avoid answering suspicious calls, set up call screening"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}