DETROIT – You may have heard about the scams making the rounds, where you get a message that you have a prize or a loved one is sick, arrested, or been in some kind of accident. Another version of those scams is now hitting wireless customers, according to the website of the Federal Communications Commission.
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It has recently learned the calls are coming to your cell phone. Strange area codes are one clue that you could be a target. The messages often urge consumers to call a number with an 809, 284, 876, or 649 area code. You might be fooled into thinking it's just another long-distance area code, but these are actually very expensive international codes.
If you call, you can become the victim of expensive charges, and you won't even know until you get your bill. While wireless companies are working to block suspicious numbers on their networks, some consumers may be at risk.
So, what can you do?
Make a note of the area codes above, and be aware that not all three-digit area codes are domestic. If you see a strange area code, make sure you look it up before punching the numbers into your phone. If you do not make international calls, you can ask your company to block outgoing international calls, to save you if you mistakenly dial the wrong area code.
Finally, if you are billed for a call you made as a result of this scam, first try to resolve the matter with your telephone company.
If you are unable to resolve it directly, you can file a complaint with the FCC. There is no charge for filing a complaint. You can file your complaint using an FCC online complaint form.
You can also file your complaint with the FCC's Consumer Center by calling 1-888-CALL-FCC (1-888-225-5322) voice or 1-888-TELL-FCC (1-888-835-5322) TTY; faxing 1-866-418-0232; or writing to:
Federal Communications Commission
Consumer & Governmental Affairs Bureau
Consumer Inquiries and Complaints Division
445 12th Street, SW
Washington, DC 20554.