Unexpected charge for call

[malGO]

I am being charged for a call to a number beginning 078939... The number LOOKS like a mobile number but, from my own research, I have, just now, found it on a list of "non-standard" mobile numbers. When I made the call, there was nothing to indicate that it wasn't a standard mobile number and I would certainly not have made the call if I'd known I would be charged. This seems to be some sort of scam. Is there anything I can do to have the charge removed from my bill?

[MI5]

@malGO 

As you willingly made the call you are responsible for the charges.

You can add a spend cap so it doesn't happen again Guide: Spend caps on O2 

[jonsie · Accepted solution]

Some telephone numbers are operated by 3rd parties who connect or forward calls to another number. There are lots of these 3rd party services and they charge O2 a different, higher rate to connect calls. Calls to these non-mobile and call forwarding services are not included in your inclusive minutes.

https://www.o2.co.uk/popups/specialnumbers-popup-07

[malGO]

Many thanks for the link to the pop-up, jonsie. It's a pity there isn't an automated chargeable call warning when ringing one of these non-standard numbers that look like normal mobile numbers. I have book-marked the pop-up list and will check it when calling a number which isn't a known contact. Thanks.

[malGO]

Thanks for your reply, MI5. I willingly made the call, but without prior warning or knowledge that it was a non-standard number and not covered by my inclusive minutes. The problem with applying a spend cap is that there may be times when I wish to make a call to a non-standard number in the full knowledge that it will cost extra. Jonsie has kindly supplied the link to the pop-up showing these non-standard numbers for my future reference. Thanks.

[jonsie]

I agree, there should be a warning when calling one of these call forwarding numbers

But as @MI5 advises, consider a zero spend cap

[jonsie]

Just seen your reply regarding spend cap and I see your point fully @malGO 

[MI5]

There's also a guide here @malGO 

Guide: Your Allowances - what is and isn't included 

There is much information available to customers in order to check these things.

[malGO]

Many thanks for your comprehensive guide, MI5. As I said at the start, I had found out for myself why the charge had been applied (though I do think the list of chargeable numbers should have more prominence than being tucked away in a pop-up). It's not O2's fault, but the fault of the tradesperson I called, who advertised their number without including a warning that it was a chargeable call-forwarding number. My original query was whether O2 offered any compensation in such a situation, but I'll take it that the answer is no and I'll be more wary in future. Thanks.

[Enlli]

And let's not forget those to the IOM and Channel Isles They really catch people out