Receiving an unexpected international call can be a source of anxiety for many people. Whether it’s a single ring from an unknown number or multiple missed calls from overseas, the uncertainty can make you wonder about the privacy and security implications.
Kathy S. recently reached out with concerns that many of us can relate to. “My cell phone received calls from Beijing and Russia. I did not answer. Can you tell me why this happened? Is my cell phone at risk?”
If you’ve experienced a similar call, you’re not alone. Let’s look into this issue and find out what’s really going on.
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A man receiving an international call on his mobile phone (Kurt “Cyber Guy” Knutson)
Increase in international phone scams
In recent years, international phone scams have been occurring frequently. One particularly prevalent scam is known as “Wangiri.” It originates from Japan and means “cut with one ring.” These scammers usually make the phone ring once or twice before hanging up, hoping to pique your curiosity and encourage you to call back.
A woman receiving an international call on a mobile phone (Kurt “Cyber Guy” Knutson)
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Why do I receive such international scam calls?
There may be several reasons why you receive a call from an unfamiliar international number.
Wangiri scam: Scammers use automated systems to call thousands of numbers and hang up after one ring. If you call back, you may be connected to a premium rate number and incur higher charges.
Telemarketing and robocalls: Some companies use international numbers to circumvent local regulations and reach more users.
Number spoofing: Scammers will make it seem like they are calling from different countries to trick you into responding.
A woman receiving an international call on a mobile phone (Kurt “Cyber Guy” Knutson)
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Is your phone at risk?
Receiving an unexpected international call doesn’t necessarily put your phone at immediate risk, but there are some potential dangers to be aware of. The main risk when engaging with these scammers is the potential financial loss. If you call back, you may be connected to a premium rate service number owned by the scammer. You may also be charged high fees for these calls, with the scammer’s goal of keeping you on the line in order to increase your bill.
Although less common in Wangiri scams, there is always a risk of personal information theft when engaging with unknown callers. Sharing sensitive data such as bank account numbers or social security numbers can lead to identity theft.
Answering or returning these calls will notify the scammer that your number is active, which may lead to more fraudulent calls in the future. Although not usually associated with Wangiri scams, some sophisticated phone scams can install malware on your device if you click on certain links or prompts or follow the scammer’s instructions. .
The best way to protect yourself from malicious links that can install malware and access your personal information is to install antivirus software on all your devices. This protection also warns you about phishing emails and ransomware scams, keeping your personal information and digital assets safe. Get my picks for the best antivirus protection products of 2025 for Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices.
A woman receiving an international call on a mobile phone (Kurt “Cyber Guy” Knutson)
how to protect yourself
While these international calls can be concerning, there are steps you can take to protect yourself and your personal information. Here are six effective strategies to protect yourself from potential scams and unwanted calls.
1) Do not answer or call back. If you receive a call from an unknown international number, resist the urge to answer or call back.
2) Block suspicious numbers. Using your phone’s built-in features, block these numbers Prevent future calls.
3) Report the call. Notify your phone company and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) about these suspicious calls.
4) Use a call blocking app. Please consider installing call blocking app To identify and block spam calls.
5) Please be careful when handling personal information. Never share sensitive data over the phone, especially with unknown callers.
6) Invest in a personal data deletion service. Consider using a service that removes your personal data from the internet and reduces the likelihood that scammers will get your information. No service promises to remove all data from the Internet, but if you want to constantly monitor and automate the process of removing information from hundreds of sites over an extended period of time, a removal service is a good option. is the best. Check out the data deletion services I recommend here.
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Cart important points
Unexpected international calls can be alarming, but you can protect yourself by understanding the nature of these scams. By staying informed and following the precautions outlined above, you can significantly reduce your risk of falling victim to these schemes. Remember, your best defense is a combination of care, awareness, and proactive steps to protect your personal information.
Are telephone companies doing enough to protect consumers from international scam calls? We want to hear from you. Cyberguy.com/Contact.
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