Information Bulletin
25 January 2005
Internet Dialling Scam
In recent months, a number of Shetland residents have contacted Trading Standards and Citizens Advice about excessive telephone bills caused by unauthorised premium rate internet dialling.
The problem occurs while you are using the internet. A pop-up window appears advising you to install software which will allow you to use the website fully - what actually happens is a dialler is installed on your computer replacing your usual internet connection. This then dials a premium rate telephone number without you being aware of it.
Such diallers are often installed from adult websites or copyright sites (such as those offering music, film and games). However, evidence is growing nationally which indicates that this type of scam is no longer restricted to such websites.
Shetland complainants have reported charges of £300 to £600 more than their regular telephone bills. Premium rate calls cost a maximum of £1.50 per minute, but international numbers may be even more. Mari Grains, Trading Standards Officer with the Council, advises: "If you are a victim of this scam, contact your telephone company as soon as possible. However, as the law stands at the moment, the bill holder will probably have no alternative but to pay".
By accessing the website
of ICSTIS, the premium rate services regulator, at www.icstis.org.uk
you can find out who operates the premium rate line.
However, Mari Grains warns: "Be aware of further scams - one complainant
was asked for bank details before the company would process their
claim".
There are things you can do to protect your computer.
- Install firewall, anti-virus and anti-pop up software, and regularly update it.
- Check your dial-up settings regularly.
- Contact your own telephone company for details of premium rate call barring.
Broadband users are not affected if the internal dial-up modem from your phone socket has been disconnected.
You can find links to other useful websites on the Council's Trading Standards web pages at www.shetland.gov.uk/tradingstandards .
If you need further help, contact the Trading Standards Service at the Council's Grantfield offices. You can email trading.standards@sic.shetland.gov.uk , phone 01595 744800 or fax 01595 695887.
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