C: Is for Don't Call

Do Not Dial area code 809, 284, and 876. Thanks to a friend recently discovered that a scam written in 1996 - has resurfaced and is being sent and is still thriving, so it's still important to protect yourself. The "809," "284," and "876" scam has many variations but they all involve a message to you (either by email, phone or pager) that you immediately call or fax a number in those area code or some other area code in the Caribbean. Examples of why you should call or fax the phone number include avoiding litigation, receiving information about someone who has been arrested or died, winning a wonderful prize, or getting a job.

The area codes are all in the Caribbean, yet most people are not aware that they are making an international call when they dial the "809" area code, since you simply dial 1-809-xxx-xxxx to make the call. No international codes are required.

The problem comes from the fact that some phone numbers are "pay-per-call" numbers (such as 900 numbers in the US) - but there are no legal requirements that callers be informed that they are being charged extra in the Caribbean. When you return one of these "pay-per-call," The scammers try to keep you on the phone as long as possible, and you may be charged very high rates for the call, reportedly up to $25- $2400 a minute.

It is difficult to get credit for these charges if you do get scammed since you did make the call, and resolving the problem involves getting credit from international phone companies.

Since there are now many area codes in the Caribbean, this scam is no longer confined to just these area code.

AT&T VERIFIES IT'S TRUE:http://www.att.com/gen/press-room?pid=6045

SNOPES VERIFIES IT'S TRUE:http://www.snopes.com/fraud/telephone/809.asp

Now beware for this could be an expensive missed F.A.C.T.