London Phone Numbers And The 2012 Olympics

Nov. 2, 2010 - PRLog -- Navenby, Lincolnshire UK: The London Olympics are predicted to bring in billions of pounds to the UK economy between now and the closing ceremony in summer 2012. Established businesses throughout London and also in the outlying Olympic venues are sure to flourish. But what of the unscrupulous businesses that will set up for a short period of time that are intent on maximising the profits to be made out of this short lived event?

Unfortunately, not all businesses act with 100% integrity and may well seek to give the impression that they are London based whereas in reality they could be located anywhere in the world. Any business can purchase virtual London phone numbers. These numbers can then be connected and redirected to either a landline or mobile phone in the UK. More alarmingly perhaps is the fact that virtual London phone numbers can be redirected to landlines or mobile phones in practically any country in the world. Local London phone numbers are available for 0203, 0207 and 0208 STD area codes and, as a consumer,  it is practically impossible to determine whether you are calling a genuine London landline number or a virtual number that could be terminating anywhere in the world. This opens the door for businesses that are intent on making a fast buck and then moving on undetected.

DBS provides London numbers through its website at http://www.dbs-uk.co.uk/telecoms/london-phone-number.html but recommends that consumers take great care in the lead up to the Olympics. Although many genuine businesses will be aiming to make an honest profit it anticipates there will be some spectacular scams in operation.

David Clarke, a director of DBS Telecoms, urges members of the public to take some common sense precautions in the lead up to 2012. “The old saying still applies that if a deal sounds too good to be true then it probably is.” he said. Mr Clarke suggests that if you are about to part with a large amount of money online that you carry out some basic background checks on the company through Companies House or organisations such as Checksure. Ask the company to call you and then record the number that appears on your telephone screen if you have caller display – this will quickly give you the true identity of the company. If caller display is blocked then this should sound an alarm bell.

If you have called a company and they are pressurising you for a quick decision on the phone then be very wary. Scammers don’t like to give you time to think and will pressure you by saying things like “if you don’t act now the tickets will be gone.” Never give bank account details over the phone as a trustworthy company would never ask for these.

If you have contacted a company with regards to Olympic events or accommodation using a London phone number and you are unsure about them then DBS recommends that you contact Consumer Direct for advice on 08454 04 05 06.

It’s a sad fact of life but in the UK three million people fall victim to scams – losing an average of £850 each. However, if you follow common sense precautions the risk should be minimised.

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