Beware the Long Distance Collect Call Scam

To avoid being a victim of a collect call scam, remember this:

Do not accept collect calls when the caller cannot be identified as having business with your department
Do not transfer an unidentified caller to an outside number that may result in long distance charges to your phone

How a Scam Works

One scam involves receiving an "automated" collect call from someone posing as an AT&T repair person who says that you will not be charged for the call. You may say "yes" to accept the collect call, "no" to deny it, or "operator" to speak with one.

If you accept the collect call, the caller requests that you transfer the call to 900. The caller is then able to consult with the AT&T operator to place a long distance call. Both the collect call and outbound long distance call are billed to your phone.

How to Respond

Collect call scams, often originating from correctional facilities, are carried out by individuals skilled at confusing you to help them get their "free" long distance call. The best defense is to say "no" or "operator" in response to the automated system. This denies the collect call and prevents future fraudulent charges.

A growing number of individuals also pose as "telecommunications staff." Because telecommunications vendors are not authorized to contact campus departments directly, any matters concerning "tests" or "solicitations for information" should be referred to Communication Technologies (formerly Telecommunications Services) at 543-0133. If you have questions, send email to telecom@cac.washington.edu

University of Washington Computing & Communications
Windows on Computing, No. 20, Autumn 1997
newsltr@cac.washington.edu