Engineer standing with a smile holding equipment

I want to report a crime or a scam

If you see someone vandalising our network or stealing cables, please don’t try to stop them yourself. It’s important to act safely and responsibly. Here’s how to report different types of incidents.

Witnessing a crime in progress?

Do not intervene – your safety comes first
Gather details if safe to do so:
- Vehicle registration numbers
- Descriptions of individuals
- Time and location
Call 999 immediately when it’s safe
Or report anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111

Spotted suspicious activity or damaged equipment? We understand your concerns. Here's exactly what to do next and who to contact for immediate help.

Reporting different types of problems

1. Scam calls and emails

If someone claiming to be from Openreach asks for your bank details or access to your computer, it’s a scam.

What to do now:

Report it to Action Fraud - the UK's fraud reporting centre
Forward scam emails to phishing@bt.com
Never give personal or financial information with unexpected callers

Remember: Openreach will never ask for bank details or computer access over the phone or email.

2. Cable theft and vandalism

If you see anything suspicious, please report it to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Alternatively, if you would like to tell us directly about anything relating to the theft of cable or malicious damage to our network then please use this form. If you wish, a member of our security team will then be in contact with you. Remember, if you see a crime in progress then call the Police as soon as it is safe to do so.

For more information, visit our reporting cable theft page.

3. Damaged or dangerous equipment

Spotted damaged cables, telephone poles, or equipment that looks unsafe?

Report immediately:

Call our damage reporting line on 0800 023 2023
Report it through your service provider
To report unsafe, damaged or vandalised Openreach equipment in my area visit this page.

How to spot genuine Openreach engineers

Expecting an engineer visit? Here's how to verify they're genuine.

Genuine engineers will:

Show a photo ID badge when they arrive from Openreach or one of our trusted partners
Call or text ahead to confirm the appointment and that they’ll be there soon
Be expected by your service provider (your provider knows they’re coming)
Only work on equipment that your service provider has reported issues with

Red flags - do not let them in if they:

Can’t provide Openreach ID or ID from one of our trusted partners
Ask for bank details or personal information
Want access to your computer or devices
Turn up unexpectedly without your service provider booking them

Unsure? Call your service provider to verify the appointment. Report suspicious individuals to 101 or Action Fraud.

Frequently asked questions

What should I do if I receive a text message claiming to be from Openreach?

We do send genuine text messages about engineer appointments and service updates. Check the engineer appointment page for details of numbers we use. When in doubt, contact your service provider to verify.
How do I know if someone calling about my internet is genuine?

We never ask for sensitive information (such as bank details, passwords, or computer access). Genuine calls will be about appointments your service provider has already told you about. If unsure, hang up and call your service provider directly using the number on your bill to verify.
What information should I gather if I witness cable theft?

Note vehicle registration numbers, descriptions of people involved, exact location, and time. Do this from a safe distance and never approach those involved. Call 999 if the crime is happening and it’s safe to do so, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 to report anonymously.