Missed call curiosity a costly trap: BBB

(File photo)

The Better Business Bureau is warning residents of Calgary to stay away from a scam that preys on people who can’t resist finding out about that mystery phone call.

During this type of scam, victims get a call that, when they answer it, it immediately hangs up.

The phone then shows a missed call from an unrecognizable number and, those who are curious enough to call it back fall into the trap.

The BBB says victims are then connected to a caller-paid toll service or chat-line located outside the country.

They’re billed about $19.95, depending on how long they remain connected.

Popular area codes used by scammers are the Dominican Republic (809), Jamaica (876), British Virgin Islands (284), Grenada (473) and Dominica (767), with the possibility of local area codes as well.

Sandra Crozier-McKee, president and CEO of BBB Serving Southern Alberta and East Kootenay, says that even if consumers feel they need to return that call, they should be aware of the consequences.

"BBB is being proactive by alerting Canadians about the "One-Ring Phone Scam," she says in a release. “In anticipation of Canadian reports, we want to educate consumers about the warning signs so they can protect themselves. If you're expecting a call, it should be from someone whose contact information you already have and recognize, otherwise you should ignore unknown numbers."

The following tips can help protect you from charges on your phone:

For more information and consumer tips, visit bbb.org.