Beware of Missed Calls from These Countries: New Phone Scam Targets Phone Data
Residents are being urged to exercise caution after a new wave of phone scams targeting mobile devices surfaced. Cybercrime experts warn of fraudulent calls originating from various countries, with scammers employing sophisticated tactics to steal personal and financial information.
The One-Ring Trick: A Sneaky Scam Tactic
The modus operandi is simple yet deceptive. Scammers call from international numbers, often letting the phone ring just once before hanging up. This tactic, known as the “one-ring” scam, aims to pique your curiosity and encourage a return call.
Returning the call is precisely what the scammers want. Answering these calls can trigger a series of risks. While you might only hear a busy signal, your phone could be compromised.
Stealing More Than Just Contacts
“Do not answer or return calls to these numbers,” DIG (Cybercrime), Mohit Chawla, warns. “Also, avoid pressing #90 or #09 on your phone if asked by any caller, as it is a new scam method used to access your SIM card, make unauthorised calls at your expense, or even frame you in a criminal activity.”
The scammers detrás these calls are mainly looking to steal valuable data stored on your phone. This can include your contact list, which they can use to target your friends and family with similar scams. More alarmingly, they may also access sensitive financial information like credit card details if stored on your device.
Dangerous Dial Codes: A Red Flag
The cyber cell of the state police has issued a list of international dialing codes linked to these scams, urging residents to be extra vigilant.
These include:
- +375 (Belarus)
- +371 (Latvia)
- +381 (Serbia)
- +563 (Valparaiso, Chile)
- +370 (Vilnius, Lithuania)
- +255 (Tanzania)
Authorities also caution against answering calls from any numbers starting with the prefixes +371, +375, or +381.
Stay Safe: How to Protect Yourself
In addition to avoiding calls from these specified numbers, the police advise residents to follow these safety tips:
- Never answer calls from unknown international numbers.
- Do not return missed calls from these numbers.
- Avoid clicking on unknown links in text messages or emails.
- Never share personal or financial information over the phone with unsolicited callers.
- Report any suspected scams to the authorities immediately by dialing toll free number 1930.
By remaining vigilant and following these precautions, you can protect yourself from falling victim to this evolving phone scam.
How can I protect myself from the “one-ring” phone scam?
## Don’t Call Back! Expert Warns of Dangerous New Phone Scam Targeting Data
**[INTRO MUSIC]**
**HOST:** Welcome back to the show. Today we’re discussing a new wave of phone scams targeting mobile devices. Joining us to shed light on this dangerous trend is cybersecurity expert Mohit Chawla from DIG (Cybercrime). Mohit, thank you for being here.
**MOHIT:** Thanks for having me.
**HOST:** Let’s jump right in. What’s happening, Mohit?
**MOHIT:** It’s called the “one-ring” scam, and it’s gaining momentum. Scammers call from international numbers, often letting your phone ring just once before hanging up. Their goal? To get you to call back.
**HOST:** And why would they want that?
**MOHIT:** Returning the call is the trap. You might hear a busy signal, but answering could potentially compromise your phone. This allows them to access your data, including contacts, financial information, and even passwords.
**HOST:** That sounds terrifying. Are there any other tactics to watch out for?
**MOHIT:** There are reports of scammers tricking people into pressing #9 after they answer the call. This could also lead to phone compromise.
**HOST:** This is crucial information, Mohit. What advice do you have for our viewers?
**MOHIT:** My advice is simple: Do not answer or return calls from unknown international numbers. And under no circumstances should you press #9.
**HOST:** And if you accidentally return the call? What should you do?
**MOHIT:** If you realize you’ve returned the call, immediately disconnect. Change your passwords for all important accounts and consider running a scan with your antivirus software.
**HOST:** Excellent advice, Mohit. Thank you so much for warning our viewers about this. This information could save them from a lot of trouble.
**MOHIT:** My pleasure. Stay vigilant everyone!
**[OUTRO MUSIC]**
