How to protect yourself against expensive scams
CHECK phone bills even if they look about right. Premium rate messages are likely to come in the form of a five-digit number, known as a ‘shortcode’.
REQUEST copies of old bills from your mobile provider if you no longer have the originals. ASK your mobile provider to put a bar on your phone to block such texts. But be aware this will also prevent you from using premium rate services you may use – such as paying for car parking or making charitable donations.
FIND out which company is behind the premium rate numbers on your bill using the regulator’s ‘number checker’ at psauthority.org. uk. Enter the shortcode number and if the company is under the supervision of the regulator, its details will be provided.
COMPLAIN to the regulator if you have been charged for texts without giving consent. You can do this online via psauthority.org.uk or by calling 0300 3030020.
BE CAREFUL what you click on while browsing the internet on your phone – and think before sharing your mobile number on a website.
WRITE to your MP if you feel angry about this issue. Tell them a rule change is needed to force mobile companies to flag up premium rate charges on the first page of a monthly bill.