An automated call is a call during which the recipient is unable to speak to an actual person. They usually take the form of a recorded message played to the recipient when they answer the telephone.  In the UK prior consent is needed to send automated marketing calls to individuals as required by the  Privacy and Electronic Communication Regulations. All marketing messages sent by automated calling systems must include the caller’s identity and an address or a freephone number at which the caller can be contacted.

To complain about a recorded marketing message you’ve received from a UK number please contact

·         If the automated call invites you to call a UK premium-rate number (one starting with 090), ask PhonepayPlus, the premium-rate regulator, for advice.   

·         For all other UK calls you can contact the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) who is the UK's independent authority set up to promote access to official information and to protect personal information,  Please click on the link to the ICO’s website to complete a complaint form.