One Ring Scam – International Number Trap
Medium RiskGot a message, call or offer like this?
Take your time. Treat it as a scam until you have checked it yourself.
- Don't tap links, reply, or ring numbers it gives you. On a call, hang up.
- Don't pay, and don't share card details, PINs, passwords or codes.
- Check with whoever it claims to be, using contact details you find yourself.
Overview
This scam relies on curiosity - victims receive a missed call from an unfamiliar or international number, and if they call back, they are charged premium rates or redirected to fake services designed to keep them on the line as long as possible.
Typical Targets
- •Anyone with a mobile phone
- •People expecting important calls
- •Those who don't recognise international dialling codes
- •Curious individuals who call back unknown numbers
Why This Scam Works
- •Curiosity about who called
- •Fear of missing something important
- •International codes aren't well known
- •One ring creates urgency
- •Premium rate charges aren't immediately visible
Example
A Dublin man noticed a missed call from a number starting with +882 (satellite phone code). Curious, he called back. An automated message played in a foreign language. He stayed on for 3 minutes trying to understand before hanging up. His phone bill showed €47 in charges for that single call.
* An illustration of how this scam works, not from a victim case we hold.
How to Avoid This Scam
- Don't call back numbers you don't recognise
- Be especially wary of international numbers you're not expecting
- If it's important, they'll call again or leave a voicemail
- Research unfamiliar country codes before calling back
- Ask your provider about premium rate blocking
- Check your bills regularly for unusual charges
If You've Been Caught Out
Don't panic – take these steps immediately:
- 1Contact your mobile provider to dispute charges
- 2Request premium rate blocking on your account
- 3Report the number to ComReg
- 4Keep records of the call and charges
- 5Some providers may refund scam-related charges
* This information is for guidance only. Always seek professional advice for your specific situation.
Who to Contact for Help
Your Mobile Provider
Check your bill
Dispute charges
ComReg
01 804 9668
Telecoms regulator
An Garda Síochána
Local station
Report if significant loss
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