Low riskText Message Scams

One Ring Call Scam

In this scam, also called Wangiri, a single ring comes from an international or premium-rate number hoping curiosity makes you call back, connecting you to a costly premium line that charges by the minute.

Quick verdict

Risk level
Low risk
Scam type
Premium-rate callback scam (Wangiri)
Main red flag
A missed call that rings only once from an unfamiliar international or premium-rate number.
What to do first
Do not call back. If it matters, the caller will leave a voicemail or message you.

What this scam usually looks like

In this scam, also called Wangiri, a single ring comes from an international or premium-rate number hoping curiosity makes you call back, connecting you to a costly premium line that charges by the minute.

Example message pattern

Example pattern — not a real report
Example pattern: A single missed call at an odd hour from an international code you do not recognise, with no voicemail and no follow-up text explaining who called.

This is a fictional, anonymised example used to illustrate the pattern. It is not a verified real message, and any names are used only to show how the scam typically reads.

Red flags to watch for

  • A call that rings just once, leaving a missed call you are tempted to return
  • An unfamiliar international dialling code you have no reason to expect
  • No voicemail and no message explaining who was calling
  • Repeated single-ring calls from different unknown numbers
  • Pressure to satisfy your curiosity by calling straight back

What to do

  • Do not call the number back
  • Search the dialling code online if you are unsure where it is from
  • Block the number on your phone
  • If calls keep coming, report them to your mobile provider

If you already clicked or replied

  • If you called back, hang up as soon as you realise it is not a genuine contact
  • Check your call log for the duration to gauge any charge
  • Contact your mobile provider to query unexpected premium charges
  • Ask your provider about barring premium-rate or international numbers

What not to do

  • Do not return the call out of curiosity
  • Do not save the number as a contact
  • Do not assume one ring means an emergency without other contact

Similar scams

Medium risk Text Message

Fake Voicemail Text Scam

This scam sends a text or email claiming you have a new voicemail or missed call, with a link to 'listen' that leads to a phishing page or prompts you to install an app.
Medium risk Text Message

Wrong Number Text Scam

This scam starts with a friendly 'wrong number' text, builds a casual conversation over time, and eventually steers you toward a fake investment.
High risk Bank & Payment

Bank Impersonation Phone Scam

In this scam a caller pretends to be your bank's fraud team, claims your account is under attack, and pressures you to move money to a 'safe account', read out one-time codes, or grant remote access so they can steal your funds.

Frequently asked questions

Why would scammers ring only once?
A single ring is meant to leave a missed call you feel curious about. Calling back can connect you to a premium-rate line that charges high per-minute fees, which is how the scam makes money.
Is it dangerous to receive the call, or only to call back?
Simply receiving the missed call does not usually cost you anything. The risk comes from calling back, so the safest response is to leave it alone.
How do I know if a number is premium-rate?
Unfamiliar international codes and unusual number formats can be a sign. If you do not recognise the code and no message explains the call, it is safer not to ring back.
Can my provider help block these?
Many providers can bar premium-rate or international numbers and can advise on blocking repeat callers. Reporting the numbers also helps them track the activity.

Last reviewed: June 2026

Disclaimer: This page provides educational information only to help you recognise common scam patterns. It is not legal, financial, cybersecurity, or law enforcement advice, and it does not confirm whether any specific message, company, or person is genuine or fraudulent. When in doubt, contact the official organisation directly and report concerns to your local authorities.