Getting an unexpected call from 08005610170? You’re not alone. This number has sparked widespread concern among UK consumers. Some say it’s linked to Capital One’s debt collection, while others warn it could be a phone scam in disguise. This blog helps you decode the truth: Is 08005610170 a scam or safe to answer? Let’s explore the facts, what users are saying, and the expert advice you need to stay protected.
- 08005610170 is commonly linked to Capital One debt collection.
- Many recipients report harassment or scam-like behavior, even without a Capital One account.
- If you’re not a Capital One customer, it’s best to block and report the number.
- Do not share personal info; verify with Capital One directly if unsure.
- Report the number via TPS or Ofcom to stop further contact.
What is 08005610170 and why are they calling me?
Have you received a call from 08005610170 and wondered whether it’s legitimate or just another scam? You’re not alone. Thousands of UK residents report being contacted by this number—often multiple times—with no clear explanation or credible identification.
Most sources associate this number with Capital One, a well-known credit card company. The calls are typically about overdue payments or account alerts. However, many people claim they’ve received such calls without ever having a Capital One account, which understandably raises suspicions and concerns about potential fraud or spoofing activity.
Is 08005610170 a scam or a genuine Capital One number?
This is where it gets tricky. Let’s break it down:
How do people describe the calls from 08005610170?
- Silent or automated calls
- Requests for sensitive information
- Callers with aggressive or pushy tone
- Repeated calls without leaving a voicemail
What do user reports reveal?
According to tellows.co.uk, many users believe this number is a debt collection agency working on behalf of Capital One. However, others have flagged it as a potential scam, particularly when the call is unsolicited.
“I got this call five times last week. I’ve never used Capital One. Feels shady!” — Tellows user
Should you answer 08005610170?
When it might be safe:
- If you currently have a Capital One account
- You expect a call about a missed payment or similar issue
In these cases:
- Do not provide sensitive information over the phone
- Instead, hang up and call Capital One directly using the number on their official website
When it’s likely unsafe:
- You don’t have a Capital One account
- The call is silent, vague, or demands personal details
In these cases:
- Do not answer or engage
- Block the number on your phone
- Call the Telephone Preference Service (TPS) or Ofcom to report it.
How can you block and report 08005610170?
Steps to protect yourself:
- Use your mobile’s built-in call blocking feature
- Use the Telephone Preference Service (TPS) to register your number.
- File a complaint with Ofcom if the calls continue
Reporting resources:
| Action | Platform |
|---|---|
| Block number | Your mobile settings |
| Report nuisance call | www.tpsonline.org.uk |
| File formal complaint | www.ofcom.org.uk |
What are Authorised Push Payment (APP) scams—and how are UK consumers protected?
Authorised Push Payment (APP) scams occur when fraudsters trick individuals into sending money to a bank account under false pretences. These frauds have gotten more complex in the UK.
Thankfully, as of October 2024, new regulations from the Payment Systems Regulator (PSR) offer faster protections:
- Refunds of up to £85,000 are available to victims within 5 business days.
- This applies to most major banks and building societies.
Why this matters: If you were pressured into transferring money due to a call from 08005610170, you may be eligible for a quick refund if the payment was fraudulent.
How to spot silent or hang-up calls from 08005610170?
One of the key red flags with 08005610170 is its erratic call behaviour:
- Silent calls where no one speaks
- Immediate hang-ups after you answer
- Calls at odd hours or repeatedly in a single day
These signs often indicate either a robocall setup or a scammer using a dialling bot.
Why community ratings classify 08005610170 as “dangerous”
On sites like unknownphone.com, this number has:
- Over 8,000 lookups
- More than 150 user complaints
- A consistent rating of “dangerous”
This kind of consensus from large numbers of users adds credibility to the idea that this number is high-risk.
Could it be linked to international scam networks targeting Capital One users?
Interestingly, tellows.com identifies a similar number in the US — 888-644-8314 — used by scammers impersonating Capital One. This suggests a pattern of international fraud, potentially targeting customers across borders.
If you’re in the UK and you receive a call from 08005610170, the scam could be part of a larger network of spoofed financial calls using similar scripts.
Yes. Scammers often spoof 0800 or 03 numbers to appear legitimate. Numbers like 03456021111 and 08000930783 have also been flagged for similar behavior. Always verify with your provider or the official company website.
What are the signs of a phone scam in the UK?
- Asking for banking or personal information
- Urgency or threats (e.g., legal action, account closure)
- Caller refuses to give a callback number
- Pressure to take action immediately
“Scammers thrive on fear and speed. Always take a moment to verify.” — Action Fraud UK
Conclusion: Is 08005610170 safe to answer?
For most UK residents, 08005610170 is not safe to answer unless you have a current relationship with Capital One and are expecting a call. Even still, proceed with caution and use proper methods to verify legality.
Key takeaway:
- Never share personal details with unknown callers
- Always confirm directly with the company’s official number
- When in doubt — block and report
FAQs about 08005610170
Is 08005610170 a Capital One number?
Possibly. But the lack of clear identification and suspicious behavior make it unreliable.
Can I trust calls from 0800 numbers in the UK?
Not always. In order to look authentic, scammers frequently impersonate 0800 numbers.
What should I do if I answered the call?
If you provided any information, contact your bank and Capital One immediately. Otherwise, block and report the number.
How do I stop nuisance calls in the UK?
- Register with TPS
- Use your phone’s blocking features
- Report to Ofcom if calls persist
Are there apps to block scam calls?
Yes, apps like Truecaller, Hiya, and Should I Answer? help identify and block known spam numbers.
Related Posts:
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- 08004970623 – is from Argos or a scam?
- Is 08000232635 a DWP number?
I’m Joe Chris, co-author at ukbusinessmag.co.uk and a long-time enthusiast of all things business and finance. My background is in digital marketing and e-commerce, and I love diving into trends that impact the UK business landscape. Through my writing, I aim to make useful, real-world advice accessible to business owners.
