“One Ring” Scam Causes Fraudulent Wireless Charges

Cell phone users are being warned to be on the lookout for a new scam that could wind up billing users with fraudulent charges on their monthly wireless statement. The Better Business Bureau has dubbed it the “One Ring” scam, as a computer sends thousands of calls to random cell phone numbers, rings once, and then disconnects.

Curious customers who return the missed call could be charged $19.95 for an international call fee and an additional $9 per-minute charge, a release from the BBB said.

Victims of the scam have reported calls originating from the Caribbean Islands, including Grenada, Antigua, Jamaica and the British Virgin Islands.

Cell phone users who think they may have fallen victim to this scam are advised to alert their phone carrier and keep an eye on their bill, the BBB said. The earlier the fraud is documented, the better the chances are for having some or all of the charges removed.

If it’s an unknown number or an area code you’re not familiar with, leave it alone, the BBB advises. Check your phone statements and look at all charges.