Short codes: 7726, 60599, 116 and 118 numbers
Short numbers are not in Ofcom's range files, so no range holder can be shown. These are the ones that matter when you deal with a scam text.
7726 is the scam text reporting number: forward a suspicious text to it, for free on most networks, and your provider can investigate and block the sender (NCSC). 60599 is HMRC's number for texts that pretend to be from HMRC (network charges apply).
116 numbers are European helplines (for example 116 123), free to call. 118 numbers are directory enquiries, charged per call.
Texts sent from 4 to 6 digit short codes by companies are not listed in Ofcom's range files. If you do not recognise one, do not reply: the ICO warns that replying confirms your number is active.
What it costs to call
| Number | From a landline | From a mobile |
|---|---|---|
| 116 helplines | free | free |
| 118 directory enquiries | up to £3.65 per 90 seconds plus your provider's access charge | up to £3.65 per 90 seconds plus your provider's access charge |
| 999, 112 | free | free |
| 101, 105, 111 | free | free |
Example format: 7726. Type any number into the number checker to see its range; paste a message into the scam text checker.
Frequently asked questions
- Is forwarding a text to 7726 free?
- Yes on most networks: the NCSC says most phone providers let customers report suspicious texts for free by forwarding them to 7726.
- What is 60599?
- HMRC's number for suspicious texts claiming to be from HMRC. HMRC says network charges apply; you can also email phishing@hmrc.gov.uk.
- Can I look up a short code here?
- The checker recognises 999, 112, 101, 105, 111, 116 and 118 numbers. Other short codes are not in Ofcom's files, so it can only tell you it is a short code.
Sources
- Cost: 116 helplines: GOV.UK, Call charges and phone numbers (costs "approximate"; check with your provider): "116 | Freephone numbers | Free | Free" — https://www.gov.uk/call-charges, read on 2026-09-29
- Cost: 118 directory enquiries: GOV.UK, Call charges and phone numbers (costs "approximate"; check with your provider): "118 | Directory enquiry numbers | up to £3.65 per 90 seconds and your phone company’s access charge" — https://www.gov.uk/call-charges, read on 2026-09-29
- Cost: 999, 112: GOV.UK, Call charges and phone numbers (costs "approximate"; check with your provider): "999 | Emergency services | Free | Free; 112 | Emergency services | Free | Free" — https://www.gov.uk/call-charges, read on 2026-09-29
- Cost: 101, 105, 111: GOV.UK, Call charges and phone numbers (costs "approximate"; check with your provider): "101 | Police non-emergency number | Free; 105 | UK-wide power cut helpline | Free; 111 | Non-emergency medical advice | Free" — https://www.gov.uk/call-charges, read on 2026-09-29
- Numbering plan (1): Ofcom, The National Telephone Numbering Plan, version with effect from 22 April 2025 (read from the Internet Archive copy of 27 Sep 2026): "116XXX: 6-digit Non-Geographic Numbers used to access harmonised services of social value (missing children hotline, helpline for victims of crime, child helplines, non-emergency medical on-call service, emotional support helplines). Free to caller" — https://www.ofcom.org.uk/siteassets/resources/documents/phones-telecoms-and-internet/information-for-industry/numbering/other/national-numbering-plan.pdf, read on 2026-09-29
- Numbering plan (2): Ofcom, The National Telephone Numbering Plan, version with effect from 22 April 2025 (read from the Internet Archive copy of 27 Sep 2026): "118XXX: 6-digit Non-Geographic Numbers used to access a Directory Enquiry Facility" — https://www.ofcom.org.uk/siteassets/resources/documents/phones-telecoms-and-internet/information-for-industry/numbering/other/national-numbering-plan.pdf, read on 2026-09-29
Last updated 2026-09-29. Independent information service. Number data from Ofcom shows the original range holder; numbers can be ported or spoofed. Not affiliated with Ofcom, the FCA, the ICO or any police service.