My new number used for spam calling?

[muzza321]

Joined O2 couple of weeks ago on contract and got a new phone number.

Received few missed calls already from mobiles numbers I don't recognise. When phoning/texting back they reply I called first.

When looking up my new number apparently it's had thousands of reports about spam/fraud.

I understand old numbers are recycled and lots of reports from over a year ago but is it possible people can still use it to mask they're own numbers and carry on making spam calls?

[MI5]

@muzza321 

Yes they can Number spoofing scams - Ofcom

You can get a free number change from O2 Guide: How to change your mobile number 

[muzza321]

Thanks, probably worth doing then. Pain in the backside 

Having  to text everyone and explain I'm changing number again and all my login stuff but first world problem I suppose 😅