Callback scam to 809 or other international area codes

Criminals love telephone scams. According to consumer information provided by AT&T, a new scam hitting U.S. consumers may generate hundreds or even thousands of dollars in unwanted phone charges. The basic hook is a phone call saying that the person calling has vitally important information for you, and you must return the call by dialing their number right away. The number will begin with 809, or one of the other international area codes such as 284 and 876 which belong to the U.S. Virgin Islands. According to some sources, the calls can cost as much as $2425 a minute!

The scammers make up any of a number of stories to get you to call, including information about a family member or other close friend who has been arrested, has died, or is in need of dire help. Other stories are the classic “you have won a prize.” In each case, you are told to call the 809 number right away. Since there are so many new area codes these days, people unknowingly return the se calls.

The bottom line here is that there are a number of ways to get scammed over the telephone. And with the ability to fake or “spoof” a caller-ID number, you cannot verify the caller using caller-ID alone.

Security Tip: Never respond to any request for a return call without first verifying the identity of the caller and the purpose of the call. Be cautious about area codes you don't recognize. Check your telephone directory or call the operator to determine where the area code is before making your call. If the call-back number is area code 809, 284, 876 or any international number (starting with 011) and the message is “urgent” you know you are getting scammed.

Related Tips: "International Call Forwarding Scam" and "Beware of Fake Phone Numbers"

International Call Forwarding Scam

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"