Works Something Like This

• You get an e-mail, voicemail or page telling you to call a phone number with an 809 (or some other three-digit) area code to collect a prize, find out about a sick relative, engage in sex talk, etc.
• You assume you are making a domestic long distance call – as "809", and other three-digit area codes involved in this phone scam appear to be a typical three-digit U.S. area code.
• When you dial the "809" area code, you're actually connected to a phone number outside the United States.
• You don't find out about the high international call rates until you receive your phone bill.

To Minimize the Phone Scam Risk Happening to You

• Check all area codes before returning calls.
• If you do not make international calls, ask your local phone company to block outgoing international calls on your line.

Debt Management Bullets