How to Spot the Pay Per Call Telephone Scam

Step-by-Step Guide

1. 1

   Step 1: Be aware of phone or email messages from companies or people you do not know.

   The message may claim a family member has been injured, that you have won a prize or that there is a problem with your credit that asks you to call a long-distance number that you do not recognize.
   
   They may also offer some sort of entertainment service such as psychic readings or even employment opportunities.
   
   The scam occurs when the victim calls the number, believing it is a legitimate long distance number, when the number is actually an international number that charges an astronomical price-per-minute rate.
   
   The most commonly used area codes are 804 in the Dominican Republic, 758 in St.
   
   Lucia and 664 in Montserrat.
   
   These area codes do not require you to dial the 011 prefix normally required for international calling.
2. 2

   Step 2: Avoid answering advertisements or messages that state "Not 900 Number

   , Since most people are aware of that "900 numbers" cost per call, the scammers try to fool the caller into thinking the call will not cost anything. ,,,,,
3. 3

   Step 3: " "No Premiums Apply

4. 4

   Step 4: " or "Long distance rates apply".

5. 5

   Step 5: These advertisements may be for employment opportunities

6. 6

   Step 6: or some sort of entertainment

7. 7

   Step 7: such as psychic hotlines or prize entries.

8. 8

   Step 8: In addition

9. 9

   Step 9: they claim "No Premiums Apply" because legitimate companies are required to notify the customer of any premium charges

10. 10

    Step 10: like per-minute costs.

11. 11

    Step 11: Long distance

12. 12

    Step 12: rates can be very high for these calls as you are calling outside the country.

13. 13

    Step 13: Tell children that they must ask permission to dial any long distance numbers.

14. 14

    Step 14: Check your telephone directory before calling any unknown long-distance number to determine if it is domestic or international.

15. 15

    Step 15: Check your phone bill closely for any suspicious long-distance charges.

Detailed Guide

About the Author