“One Ring Phone Scam”

WEST MICHIGAN (NEWSCHANNEL 3) – Something known as the “one-ring phone scam” is sweeping the country.

Here’s how it works. Scammers program their computers to blast out thousands of calls to random cell phone numbers. Those calls ring once and then hang up.
If you call back, you’re connected to an adult entertainment service, a chat-line or some other premium program in another country.
You’re charged a nearly $20 international phone call fee, plus per minute charges for that “premium service.” Those charges can be an extra nine dollars a minute or more.
Those international area codes are (268) – Antigua/Barbuda | (809) – Dominican Republic | (876) – Jamaica | (284) – British Virgin Islands | (473) – Grenada.
So far, victims have reported getting calls Antigua, the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, the British Virgin Islands and more.
The Better Business Bureau says if you don’t recognize an out-of-state number, don’t answer it.
If it rings once, make sure you don’t call back.
You should also check your cell phone bills regularly and let your carrier know right away if you see any questionable charges.

 

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