The "Single Ring Scam"...

[fairsheet]

I just heard about this one yesterday. Apparently it's ensnared and cost 100's of thousands of people. Here's how it works. A call goes out to your cellphone. It rings just once and leaves no message. But...it shows up on your "missed" calls log. So...you call the number back and it's a really expensive call that puts big charges on you bill. Those scammers are dirty rats!

On the other hand, who the HELL is so insecure and pathetic that they would call the number back in the FIRST place? What's the matter with people. Several times over the years, I've figured out that I've dialed a wrong number before the other end picks up. In that case, I just hang up. Why waste their time? I'm always surprised when it happens - but about half the time, the wrong number calls me back.

 

[GordonGecko]

One ring to rule them all.

BTW, makes no sense to call back a missed call with one ring....my assumption would be "wrong number" and why call somebody who called you by mistake...to ask them if they called you by mistake?!?!?

 

[NightSwimmer]

I've gotten a few of these types of calls recently. Phone rings, I answer, no response. I figured that it might be someone putting together a list of known "good" telephone numbers to sell to call centers.

How does simply dialing a domestic number lead to charges on one's phone bill?