Premium Rate Telephone Scams

The use, and high cost, of premium telephone numbers can be a central feature of a scam. Fraudsters use these numbers to carry out many different scams. They include phoney competitions, prize and holiday offers, as well as deceptive credit card promotions. The longer you stay on the line, the more money the fraudster earns.

False promises

The scams may begin with notification by post, by phone or other means, claiming that you have won something or have qualified for a credit card. You might be promised a product or service, but what you actually receive, if you receive anything, is likely to be disappointing.

If you are calling to get a credit card, you might simply get a list of banks to which you can apply for a card. If you are told to call because you are the winner of a prize draw you will receive nothing at all, except a very large phone bill!

You might call the number and be required to listen to a long recorded sales message or answer a long list of questions. Remember, the longer you stay on the phone, the higher the charge for the call.

You might even be directed to a second premium rate telephone number for additional information or to claim you prize or order your product or service.

Tips to remember

Premium rate telephone numbers attract charges by the minute, usually well above the cost of a local or STD call.

Don't dial these numbers unless you are absolutely sure how much you will be charged and you are willing to pay for it.

Be on your guard if; after dialing one of these numbers you hear a message asking you to dial a second number.

Do some research into the organisation if you have never heard of them before, and trust your own common sense?

You can always hang up.

PhonepayPlus

PhonepayPlus is the industry-funded regulatory body for all premium rate charged telecommunications services. The purpose of PhonepayPlus is to establish, maintain and ensure compliance with appropriate standards of protection for users of premium rate information and entertainment services and, in doing so, contribute towards the development of the industry. It can investigate complaints and has the power to fine companies and bar access to services. In addition, it offers free advice and guidance to both existing and new service providers.

Consumers can submit a complaint online by completing the online complaint form or alternatively they can telephone, fax, or write to PhonepayPlus