Receiving unexpected international calls can be a source of concern for many individuals. Whether it's a single ring from an unknown number or several missed calls from abroad, uncertainty can leave you wondering about the implications for your privacy and security.
Contact Cathy S. Recently with concerns that many of us can relate to: “I have received calls from Beijing and Russia on my mobile phone. I have not answered them. Can you tell me why this is happening? Is my phone in danger?”
If you experience similar calls, you are not alone. Let's examine this problem and find out what's really going on.
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A man receives an international call on his mobile phone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutson)
The emergence of international call scams
International call scams have become increasingly common in recent years. One particularly prevalent scam is known as “Wangiri,” which has Japanese origins and means “one ring and cut.” These scammers usually let your phone ring once or twice before hanging up, hoping to pique your curiosity and demand a call back.
A woman receives an international call on her mobile phone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutson)
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Why are you receiving these international scam calls?
There are several reasons why you may be receiving calls from unfamiliar international numbers.
Another scam: Scammers use automated systems to call thousands of numbers, and the call is dropped after one ring. If you call back, you may be connected to a premium rate number, resulting in significant charges.
Telemarketing and robocalls: Some companies use international numbers to bypass local regulations and reach a wider audience.
Fake number: Scammers can make their calls appear to be coming from different countries, tricking you into answering.
A woman receives an international call on her mobile phone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutson)
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Is your phone in danger?
Although receiving unexpected international calls doesn't necessarily put your phone in immediate danger, there are several potential risks you should be aware of. The main risk is the potential financial losses if you deal with these scammers. If you call back, you may be connected to a premium rate service number owned by the scammer. You can also be charged exorbitant fees for these calls, as the scammer aims to keep you on the line to increase the bill amount.
Although it is less common with Wangiri scams, there is always a risk of personal information being stolen if you are dealing with unknown callers. Sharing sensitive data such as bank account numbers or Social Security numbers may lead to identity theft.
Answering or answering these calls may signal to scammers that your number is active, which could lead to more scam calls in the future. Although they are not typically associated with Wangiri scams, some sophisticated phone scams can install malware on your device if you click on certain links, prompts, or follow instructions provided by the scammer.
The best way to protect yourself from malicious links that install malware, and potentially access your private information, is to install antivirus software on all of your devices. This protection can also alert you to phishing emails and ransomware, keeping your personal information and digital assets safe. Get my picks for the best antivirus protection winners of 2025 for Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS.
A woman receives an international call on her mobile phone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutson)
How to protect yourself
Although these international calls can be worrying, there are several steps you can take to protect yourself and your personal information. Here are six effective strategies to help protect against 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 redial the call.
2) Block suspicious numbers: Use your phone's built-in features to do this Block these numbers And block future calls.
3) Call reporting: Report these suspicious calls to your telephone operator and the FCC.
4) Use call blocking apps: Think about installation Call blocking apps To identify and block unwanted calls.
5) Be careful with personal information: Never share sensitive data over the phone, especially with unfamiliar callers.
6) Invest in personal data removal services: Consider using services that remove your personal data from the Internet, reducing the chances of scammers getting your information. Although no service promises to remove all your data from the Internet, getting a removal service is great if you want to continuously monitor and automate the process of removing your information from hundreds of sites over a longer period of time. Check out my top picks for data removal services here.
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Key takeaways for Kurt
While unexpected international calls can be worrying, understanding the nature of these scams enables you to protect yourself. By staying informed and following the preventative measures described above, you can significantly reduce your risk of falling victim to these schemes. Remember, your best defense is a combination of caution, awareness, and proactive steps to protect your personal information.
Are phone companies doing enough to help protect consumers from international fraudulent calls? Let us know what you think by writing to us on Cyberguy.com/Contact.
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