The Danger of Answering Calls from Foreign Numbers: How to Avoid Phone Scams

In today’s tech-savvy world, receiving calls from foreign numbers is common. However, not all of these calls are safe. Some are scams designed to trick you into calling back, incurring hefty phone bills. It’s crucial to understand these risks and know how to protect yourself.

How the Scam Works

You might get a call from an unfamiliar foreign number that disconnects after a ring or two, leaving you curious to call back. This is a “Wangiri” scam, meaning “one ring and cut” in Japanese. Calling back connects you to a premium rate number, often overseas, resulting in exorbitant charges.

How to Protect Yourself

• Ignore Unknown Numbers: Let calls from unfamiliar foreign numbers go to voicemail.
• Don’t Call Back: Avoid returning missed calls from unknown numbers, regardless of the area code.
• Research the Number: Check online databases to see if the number is flagged as a scam.
• Use Call Blocking Apps: Utilize apps to identify and block potential scam calls.

Conclusion

Receiving calls from unknown foreign numbers can lead to costly scams. Stay vigilant and follow these tips to avoid falling victim to these schemes and protect your finances.