Receiving unexpected international calls? What you need to know

Receiving unexpected international calls can be a source of anxiety for many individuals. Whether it’s a single ring from an unknown number or multiple missed calls from abroad, the uncertainty can leave you wondering about the implications for your privacy and security.

Kathy S. recently reached out with a concern many of us can relate to: “I have received calls from Beijing and Russia on my cellphone. I did not answer them. Can you tell me why this is happening? Is my phone at risk?”

If you’ve experienced similar calls, you’re not alone. Let’s examine this issue and discover what’s really going on.

The rise of international call scams

International call scams have become increasingly common in recent years. One particularly prevalent scam is known as “Wangiri,” which originates from Japan and means “one-ring-and-cut.” These scammers typically let your phone ring once or twice before hanging up, hoping to pique your curiosity and prompt a callback.

Why are you receiving these international scam calls?

There are several reasons why you might be receiving calls from unfamiliar international numbers. Wangiri scams involve scammers using automated systems to call thousands of numbers, disconnecting after one ring. If you call back, you may be connected to a premium rate number, incurring significant charges. Telemarketing and robocalls may also use international numbers to bypass local regulations and reach a wider audience. Additionally, scammers can make their calls appear to come from different countries through number spoofing, tricking you into answering.

Is your phone at risk?

While receiving unexpected international calls doesn’t necessarily put your phone at immediate risk, there are potential dangers to be aware of. Engaging with these scammers can lead to financial losses if you call back and are connected to a premium rate service number. There’s also a risk of personal information theft if you share sensitive data with unknown callers, potentially leading to identity theft. Additionally, answering or returning these calls may signal to scammers that your number is active, potentially resulting in more scam calls in the future.

How to protect yourself

To safeguard yourself from potential scams and unwanted calls, consider the following strategies:

1) Don’t answer or call back: Resist the urge to answer or return calls from unknown international numbers.
2) Block suspicious numbers: Use your phone’s features to block these numbers and prevent future calls.
3) Report the calls: Inform your phone carrier and the FCC about suspicious calls.
4) Use call-blocking apps: Install call-blocking apps to identify and block spam calls.
5) Be cautious with personal information: Avoid sharing sensitive data over the phone with unfamiliar callers.
6) Invest in personal data removal services: Consider using services that remove your personal data from the internet to reduce the risk of scammers obtaining your information.

By staying informed and following these preventive measures, you can significantly reduce your risk of falling victim to international call scams. Your best defense is a combination of caution, awareness, and proactive steps to safeguard your personal information.

In conclusion, while unexpected international calls can be alarming, understanding the nature of these scams empowers you to protect yourself. By taking proactive steps and staying informed, you can minimize the risk of falling victim to these schemes. Remember to stay vigilant and prioritize your privacy and security when dealing with unknown international calls.