FCC warns of "ringing" phone scams

Federal authorities warn against a scam that does not try to force you to answer automated calls – it tries to get you back.

With the "One Ring" scam, your phone may ring briefly and then stop. If you do not recognize the number, do not call it back, warns the Federal Communications Commission.

"If you call such a number, you may be connected to a number located outside of the United States," the commission said. "As a result, you may be charged for connection fees, as well as considerable per minute charges, as long as they can keep you on the phone. These charges may appear on your bill as premium services. "

A ringtone may seem to come from international callers, including the first numbers that look like US area codes. Fraudsters can also use identity theft techniques to further hide your caller's number.

The variants of the scam include phony voice messages that invite you to call a number with an unknown area code to "pick up a price" or to notify you of a "sick relative," the FCC said.

If any of these calls are charged, first try to resolve the problem with your phone company. You can also file a complaint with the FCC.