Missed Call, Massive Bill: The International Scam Draining Your Wallet

Mumbai - In an era where connectivity is paramount, a new threat has emerged, preying on our instinct to return missed calls. Reliance Jio, a leading telecom provider, has recently alerted its users to a burgeoning scam involving missed calls from international numbers, known as the Premium Rate Service scam.

The Anatomy of the Scam

The scheme is deceptively simple: scammers initiate brief calls from international numbers, ensuring they appear as missed calls on the recipient's phone. Driven by curiosity or concern, individuals return these calls, unknowingly connecting to premium-rate services that charge exorbitant fees per minute. Even a short callback can result in substantial charges, leading to unexpected financial burdens.

Recognizing the Red Flags

To safeguard against this scam, it's crucial to recognize its telltale signs:
•    Unknown International Numbers: Be wary of missed calls from unfamiliar international numbers, especially those with country codes other than India's +91.
•    Brief Call Durations: Scammers often let the phone ring briefly, aiming to leave a missed call notification without actual engagement.
•    Odd Timing: Receiving such calls at unusual hours can be indicative of fraudulent activity.

Protective Measures

Reliance Jio advises its users to adopt the following precautions:
•    Avoid Returning Unknown International Calls: Refrain from calling back unfamiliar international numbers.
•    Utilize Call Blocking Features: Use your phone's blocking capabilities to prevent repeated calls from suspicious numbers.
•    Educate Your Circle: Inform family and friends about this scam to enhance collective vigilance.