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Attention: Watch Out for Ghost Calls - Police Advise: Don't Answer!

What are Ghost Calls?

Ghost calls, also known as Wangiri calls, are a type of phone scam where scammers call you from an unknown number and quickly hang up before you have a chance to answer. These calls are often made from international numbers, making it difficult to trace the caller. The scammer's goal is to get you to call back, which can result in high phone charges.

How to Avoid Ghost Calls

The best way to avoid ghost calls is to simply not answer calls from unknown numbers. If you do answer a call from an unknown number and the caller hangs up quickly, do not call back. You can also block the number so that they can't call you again.

There are a number of apps available that can help you block ghost calls. These apps use a database of known scam numbers to identify and block calls from those numbers. You can also set your phone to only allow calls from numbers in your contacts list.

What to Do If You Get a Ghost Call

If you do get a ghost call, do not call back. You can report the call to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at 1-888-382-1222. You can also report the call to your phone carrier. Some phone carriers offer a service that can block calls from specific numbers.

Why Are Ghost Calls So Prevalent?

Ghost calls are prevalent because they are a relatively easy way for scammers to make money. The scammers use automated dialing systems to make thousands of calls per day. Even if only a small percentage of people call back, the scammers can make a significant profit.

Ghost calls are also prevalent because many people are not aware of the scam. Many people think that if they answer a call from an unknown number, they will be charged for the call. This is not true. You are only charged for calls that you make, not calls that you receive.

Additional Tips

Here are some additional tips to help you avoid ghost calls:

Do not answer calls from unknown numbers.
If you do answer a call from an unknown number and the caller hangs up quickly, do not call back.
Block the number so that they can't call you again.
Use a call-blocking app to identify and block calls from known scam numbers.
Set your phone to only allow calls from numbers in your contacts list.
Report ghost calls to the FTC at 1-888-382-1222.
Report ghost calls to your phone carrier.