An unknown number is calling me: what to do step by step

An unknown number is calling me: what to do step by step

Calls from numbers you have not saved are more and more common. Before you answer or call back, it pays to check who is behind it: the NoCall community keeps a large database of user 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 ID number and do not share codes that arrive by SMS (OTPs). A genuine caller will say who they are 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 dialling code

The first digits give you quick clues about the kind of call, and our dialling code guide shows the South African prefixes in more detail:

• Numbers starting with 06, 07 or 081 to 084: South African cellphones. Because people can keep their number when they change network, the code no longer tells you which network it is on.
• Area codes from 010 to 058: landlines (011 Johannesburg, 012 Pretoria, 021 Cape Town, 031 Durban...).
• 0800: toll-free numbers. 0860 and 0861: shared-cost business numbers. 087: internet-based (VoIP) numbers.
• + an international code: a call from abroad. Check which country it is before you call back: it may be expensive.

4. Decide: call back, block or ignore

• Low risk and a believable reason: call back as normal.
• Spam or pushy telemarketing: block the number and report it on NoCall. If a company keeps calling after you have asked it to stop, you can complain to the Information Regulator.
• Possible scam: do not call back; if you already shared details, contact your bank and open a case at your nearest police station (SAPS).

5. Protect yourself from now on

Switch on your phone's spam filter and the NoCall app to identify incoming calls automatically. If the call felt suspicious, also read our step-by-step guides.

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) and comments from other users who got the same call.

Is it dangerous to call back an unknown number?

It can be: premium-rate and international numbers can cost a lot per minute, and on prepaid the cost comes straight off your airtime. Always check the number on NoCall before calling back.