We’ve all received a missed call from an unknown number, but what if that call could cost you a lot more than you think? Reliance Jio has issued a warning to its users about a growing scam that is tricking people into calling back international numbers, leading to heavy charges. This scam is becoming increasingly common across India, and many users are finding themselves with sky-high bills after returning a missed call.
The scam starts with a missed call from an international number. These numbers have country codes other than +91 (India’s country code). The caller usually disconnects before the phone rings for long, causing little curiosity. However, when users return the call, they unknowingly connect to someone with “Premium Rate Service,” which charges extremely high rates for every minute of the call. Even a brief connection can lead to steep charges, leaving users with hefty phone bills.
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It’s important to be able to recognise suspicious calls to avoid falling victim to this scam. If you receive a missed call from an unfamiliar international number, especially one with a country code other than +91, it’s best to be cautious. Scammers typically make these calls at odd hours, and the call usually disconnects quickly. If you notice multiple calls from similar international numbers, that’s another red flag.
Reliance Jio strongly advises users to avoid calling back unknown international numbers. If you suspect a call is suspicious, it’s a good idea to block the number immediately. To further protect yourself, you can enable the ‘international call blocking’ feature from your mobile service provider. Keeping a record of suspicious calls and reporting them to local authorities can help in identifying and stopping these scammers. Additionally, it’s important to inform family members, especially older ones, who may not be aware of such scams.
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Telecom authorities are actively working to block known scam numbers, but scammers continue to find new ways to trick users. Staying alert and informed is the best way to protect yourself from falling victim to this scam.