Hacking into and messing with phone systems has always been an interest to criminals. There are many scams to try to either get free phone calls, or to trick you into calling pay services. This one comes directly from AT&T. The basic idea is that the criminal tricks you into forwarding your phone to one of their lines. Here’s how it works:
You may receive an automated message on your telephone that says you have won a prize or money. The message directs you to dial a 2-digit code preceded or followed by the * or # key (such as *79 or 72#), and then an 800 number to claim your prize. When you dial the number, you are not connected to anyone. What this procedure has done, though, is program your telephone to forward your calls to a long distance operator. Con artists can then call your number, be forwarded to the long-distance operator and place calls that are billed to your home telephone number.
Security Tip: Know the numbers used for call forwarding from your local telephone company. If you receive a call that requests a two-digit command followed by # or *, simply hang up. If you receive this message on your answering machine, do not place this call. No legitimate sweepstakes or contest would likely contact you in this manner.
Related Tips: "Watch out for fake phone numbers"
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