Latest phone scam charges callers who return missed calls
Your phone rings once and you miss the call. Of course you want know who it was. But don't call back. 5 On Your Side's Monica Laliberte is here with a warning.
Posted — UpdatedIt's a scam that's happening nationwide and is starting to hit in the Triangle.
5 On Your Side called the Better Business Bureau on Monday about the so-called one-ring scam, and the agency issued a warning Tuesday against it.
It’s called “one ring” because the scammers barely let a cellphone ring once, then hang up. They want recipients to call back.
When recipients return the call, they are charged almost $20. Callers who stay on the line can be charged $9 or more a minute.
The calls are coming from places in the Caribbean, including:
• Grenada – area code 473
The practice of third parties placing unauthorized charges on wireless accounts is called "cramming." Federal authorities have looked at thousands of complaints and warn the problem will continue.
The best advice: If you don't recognize the number, don't answer.
If you do get scammed, contact your provider. Most will reverse the charges the first time it happens.
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