809 E-mail Scam

The latest telephone scam proving very costly to unknowing consumers involves use of area code 809. Perhaps you come home to a message on your answering machine alerting you that a family member is ill, or that you've won a major prize. You're told to call a number with an 809 area code. Investigate first or disregard the message. The 809 area code is for the British Virgin Islands and can be used like a 800 pay per call number at the cost of $25 per minute! 809 is NOT covered by US regulations, and cannot be blocked by the 900 call blocking devices. Be very wary of any E-mail or phone calls asking you to call an 809 area code number. It is important to be aware of this scam, as trying to fight the charges after the fact can become a real nightmare.

Bob Schultheis - Nov. 5, 1996

[ Home | Your Money | Get Organized | Tightwad Tidbits | Living Better | Safety & Privacy | Buyer Beware | Kids & Money | About CEU | Search ]

	Web site coordinators: Jamie Thompson Sandra McKinnon Site evaluation: Cynthia Crawford Last updated: March 09, 2005	Web site established by: Kate Akers Mark Belwood Cynthia Crawford Sandra McKinnon Diana Hammond

University of Missouri Extension does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national
origin, sex, religion, age, disability or status as a Vietnam-era veteran in employment or programs.