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PROJECT: "WANGIRI" SCAMS - NUMBERS YOU SHOULD NEVER ANSWER

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"Wangiri" (literally meaning "one ring and cut" in Japanese) is a type of phone scam where the scammer

typically places automated calls to random phone numbers, often using robocalling technology.


The goal is to get the recipient to call back, usually by leaving a missed call

with a number that appears to be from a legitimate or local source.


By being vigilant and cautious with unknown callers, you can reduce the risk

of falling victim to Wangiri scams and other phone frauds.


Phone scams have become more sophisticated and frequent, with fraudsters devising

new ways to trick unsuspecting victims into revealing personal information.

This can open doors to sensitive data and, unrestricted access to your bank accounts.

With a few simple precautions, you can protect yourself from these scam calls and keep your information safe.

 

MODUS OPERANDI: 


  • Missed Call:

    • The fraudster calls briefly and hangs up after the first ring.

    • This trick preys on people's curiosity or the expectation of an important message.

    • When the recipient sees the missed call, they feel compelled to call back, which triggers the trap and can lead to hefty phone bills or the activation of costly services that drain the victim's bank account.

  • Automated Calls:

    • The scammer uses automated systems to make mass calls to random phone numbers.

    • These calls often only ring once or twice before disconnecting, hence the name "one ring and cut."

  • Premium Rates:

    • When the recipient calls back, they are often connected to a premium-rate number, which charges a high fee for each minute of the call.

    • The scammer earns money from these inflated charges, often splitting the profits with the provider of the premium-rate number.

  • Short Duration:

    • Sometimes, even if the call is answered, the scammer may try to keep the victim on the line for as short a time as possible to minimise suspicion and maximise the chances of a callback.

  • Variants:

    • There are variations of the Wangiri scam, in which the scammer may use recorded messages or attempt to engage the victim in conversation to keep them on the line for a longer period of time.

 

SCAM STRATEGIES AND HOW FRAUDSTERS TRAP THEIR VICTIMS:


  • The calls often come at night or during work hours when you are less likely to answer immediately.

  • This increases the chance that you will call back later.

  • Sometimes, the scammers leave a message asking you to call back to the same number.

  • When you do, they try to keep you on the line as long as possible to incur high charges.

 

NEVER ANSWER THE FOLLOWING CALLS:


  • Scammers often change their phone numbers to avoid detection.

  • However, there are some international prefixes that should raise suspicion if you see them on your phone.

  • These prefixes include:

    • +255 (Tanzania),

    • +371 (Latvia),

    • +375 (Belarus), 

    • +44 (United Kingdom) (If you are based in the UK, please disregard this),

    • +53 (Cuba),

    • +216 (Tunisia),

    • +373 (Moldova), and

    • +383 (Kosovo).

  • If you see a call from any of these numbers, you should ignore it - unless you are specifically expecting a call from one of these countries.

 

SAFETY MEASURES:


  • The best way to protect yourself is to ignore these calls completely.

  • If you receive repeated calls from the same number, you can block it.

  • Be aware that scammers often change numbers to avoid being blocked.

  • Therefore, always be cautious of calls from unknown numbers and avoid calling back.

  • In conclusion, by being aware of these scam methods and taking the necessary precautions, you can avoid becoming a victim and protect your personal information and finances.

 

IMPORTANT:


  • Avoid Calling Back Unknown Numbers:

    • Especially if they are international or premium-rate numbers.

  • Check Numbers Online:

    • If you are unsure about a missed call, search the number online to see if it matches any known scam reports.

  • Use Call Blocking Apps:

    • Some apps can help identify and block potential scam calls.

  • Report Suspicious Activity:

    • If you suspect you have been targeted by a Wangiri scam, report it to your phone carrier and local authorities.

 

Stay informed and vigilant.

 

Specialised Security Services invites the public to the Mike Bolhuis Daily Projects WhatsApp Group.

This group is important in delivering insights into the latest crime trends, awareness, warnings and the exposure of criminals.


HOW TO JOIN THE MIKE BOLHUIS DAILY PROJECTS WHATSAPP GROUP:

 
CONTACT MR MIKE BOLHUIS FOR SAFETY AND SECURITY MEASURES, PROTECTION, OR AN INVESTIGATION IF NEEDED.

ALL INFORMATION RECEIVED WILL BE TREATED IN THE STRICTEST CONFIDENTIALITY AND EVERY IDENTITY WILL BE PROTECTED.
 

Regards,

Mike Bolhuis

Specialist Investigators into

Serious Violent, Serious Economic Crimes & Serious Cybercrimes

PSIRA Reg. 1590364/421949

Mobile: +27 82 447 6116

Fax: 086 585 4924

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