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809 Area Code Scam
Phishing Voice Mail Scam
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Phishing doesn't
only come in the form of email fraud scams - phishing can also be
done through fraudulent voice mail scams.
We received a call last week from the 809 area
code. The woman said "Hey, this is Karen. Sorry I missed you -
get back to us quickly. I Have something important to tell
you." Then she repeated a phone number beginning with 809.
Subject: DON'T EVER DIAL AREA CODE 809 , 284 AND 876
THIS IS VERY IMPORTANT INFORMATION PROVIDED TO US BY AT&T. DON'T
EVER DIAL AREA CODE 809 |
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This one is being distributed all over the US . This is
pretty scary, especially given the way they try to get you to call.
Be sure you read this and pass it on.
They get you to call by telling you that it is
information about a family member who has been ill or to tell you
someone has-been arrested, died, or to let you know you have won a
wonderful prize, etc.
In each case, you are told to call the 809 number right away. Since
there are so many new area codes these days, people unknowingly
return these calls.
If you call from the US , you will apparently be charged $2425
per-minute.
Or, you'll get a long recorded message. The point is, they will try
to keep you on the phone as long as possible to increase the
charges. Unfortunately, when you get your phone bill, you'll often
be charged more than $24, 100.00.
WHY IT WORKS:
The 809 area code is located in the British Virgin Islands (The
Bahamas). The charges afterwards can become a real nightmare.
That's because you did actually make the call. If you complain, both
your local phone company and your long distance carrier will not
want to get involved and will most likely tell you that they are
simply providing the billing for the foreign company. You'll end up
dealing with a foreign company that argues they have done nothing
wrong.
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