An unknown number is calling me: what to do step by step
You keep getting calls from a number you do not recognise. Learn how to identify the caller, check the number before answering and protect yourself from spam.
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An unknown number is calling me: what to do step by step
Getting calls from numbers you have not saved is more and more common. Before answering or calling back, it is worth checking who is behind the call: the NoCall community keeps a large database of user-contributed reports on phone numbers.
1. Do not answer with your details
If you decide to pick up, listen first. Do not say your full name, do not confirm your NIN or BVN, and do not share codes that arrive by SMS. A genuine caller will identify themselves without asking for sensitive details upfront.
2. Look the number up on NoCall
The NoCall database holds a large catalogue of numbers identified by the community. For each number you can see its risk score, its category and comments from other users:
- Risk score — from 0 (safe) to 100 (dangerous).
- Category — spam, telemarketing, scam, debt collection, surveys.
- Comments — what other users who got the same call reported.
3. Read the prefix
The prefix gives you quick clues about the kind of call:
- 070x, 080x, 081x, 090x, 091x — Nigerian mobile numbers: 11 digits starting with 0, such as 0803 000 0000, or +234 803 000 0000 in international format. Because of number portability, the prefix no longer tells you the network reliably.
- Area codes such as 01 (Lagos) or 09 (Abuja) — Landlines, which are rare.
- A + followed by another country code — An international call: check the country before calling back, as it can be expensive.
4. Decide: call back, block or ignore
- Low risk and a plausible reason — call back normally.
- Spam or pushy telemarketing — block the number and report it on NoCall. For promotional calls and texts, you can also ask your network about its Do-Not-Disturb (DND) options, though DND does not stop scammers.
- Possible scam — do not call back; if you already shared details, contact your bank and report it to the police through the NPF-NCCC e-reporting portal.
5. Protect yourself going forward
Turn on your phone's spam filter and the NoCall app to identify incoming calls automatically. If the call felt suspicious, also read our guides for suspicious calls. If unwanted calls continue and your network does not resolve your complaint, the NCC consumer portal explains how to escalate it.
Should I answer a call from an unknown number?
You can answer, but never share personal or banking details. If the call matters, they will leave a message or call again. Afterwards, look the number up on NoCall to see whether other users have reported it.
How can I find out who called me from an unknown number?
Look the number up on NoCall: you will see its risk score, its category (spam, telemarketing, scam), the network and comments from other users who got the same call.
Is it dangerous to call back an unknown number?
It can be: international numbers and premium short codes can eat your airtime quickly. Always check the number on NoCall before calling back.
Sources and review
Reviewed:
Numbering, carrier tools, and reporting procedures can change. Verify sensitive steps with the linked primary authority.
Article details
Editorial content reviewed by NoCall with practical context for spotting suspicious calls and messages.
Received a suspicious call?
Look up the number in NoCall before sharing data, calling back, or clicking any link.
Search a phone number or a company name (GTBank, MTN and Airtel...) to check if it has been reported as spam.