International phone call scam

I recently received an email from reader Tom Z. asking if I was familiar with international phone call scam. He specifically mentioned the 809 area code, which is based in the Dominican Republic. The scam is also known as the “one ring” phone scam and often targets cellular users.

At some point, everyone receives a call from a number they don’t recognize. I’ve cautioned before to be aware of calls from unfamiliar numbers because those calls may be a robocall. These days, most people have learned when “Publishers Clearing House” calls with the “good news,” it’s probably part of a scam.

But, what happens when the caller hangs up before you can answer? This is where the one ring, or the international phone call scam, begins. The caller doesn’t allow time to answer because they want you to return their call. Even though the number you dial looks to be a US area code, when you dial and are connected, your call might be going through an international exchange or to a calling service where they charge even if you hang up after connecting.

The major area codes used for these scams are 809, 284, 649, and 876.

The major area codes used for the international phone call scam include 809, 284, 649, and 876. However, the full list is quite extensive. Charges on these calls can be significant and you may not even realize your account has been charged until you get your next phone bill. The rules for returning phone calls are the same as for email.

• If you don’t recognize the number of an incoming phone call, don’t answer. The same thing applies if your Caller ID tells you no Caller ID is available.
• If you don’t know the number and the caller doesn’t leave a message, don’t return the call.
• If you feel you’ve been the victim of this scam, begin by contacting your provider. If that doesn’t solve the problem, consider filing a complaint with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) at www.fcc.gov/complaints.

Do you have a scam you’d like to have featured? Send me some information on the scam via this contact form.

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