Can a new number already be spam?
Yes. And it's more common than you think.
THE SHORT ANSWER
Yes, a "new" number can already be flagged as spam. Carriers recycle numbers, and the previous user may have burned it.
THE LIFECYCLE OF A PHONE NUMBER
USER A
Intensive prospecting → reports → number burned → cancellation
CARRIER POOL
The number returns to the pool. Quarantine of 3 to 6 months (varies).
YOU
You receive this "new" number. But its reputation is still negative.
5 REASONS YOUR NEW NUMBER IS ALREADY SPAM
Number recycling
Carriers recycle cancelled numbers after a short quarantine. The reporting history persists in anti-spam databases.
High-risk prefix
Some prefixes (09 77, 09 70...) are heavily used by call centers and are more closely monitored.
Polluted number range
Your number is part of an entire range that was blacklisted because of a problematic neighbor.
Poorly managed portability
Porting a number from one carrier to another can trigger checks that reveal a negative history.
Outdated database
Some anti-spam apps use old databases that still contain the number, even after carrier cleanup.
HOW TO CHECK BEFORE BUYING
Test on huhu.fr
Run an instant check to find out the number's reputation score.
Check public databases
Consult reverse directories and reporting forums to detect any history.
Call a test mobile
Call your own mobile to see if the call displays as "Spam likely" or "Suspected spam".
Request history from carrier
Demand a certificate from the carrier confirming the number has no recent reporting history.
RISK BY PREFIX
| Prefix | Confidence | Verdict |
|---|---|---|
| 01, 02, 03, 04, 05 | High | Rarely recycled, low risk |
| 06, 07 (Mobile) | Medium | Frequently recycled, check it |
| 01 86, 09 48 | Low | Often VoIP, moderate risk |
| 09 77, 09 70 | Very low | Heavily spammed prefixes |
WHAT TO DO IF YOUR NEW NUMBER IS SPAM
Request a swap
Contact your carrier for a replacement. Cite the quality defect of the assigned number.
Test before using
Use huhu.fr to check the score before each campaign. A clean number = better pickup rate.
Let it rest
If the score is moderately negative, let the number rest for 2 to 4 weeks before using it.
Diversify your numbers
Don't rely on a single number. Use rotation to spread the risk.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How long does a number stay flagged as spam?
Can my carrier guarantee a clean number?
Is a landline number safer than a mobile?
Can I contest a report on a new number?
Can huhu.fr detect if my new number is burned?
Check your number before using it
1 free check — no commitment