re: Why do random prisoners collect call me from jail? UPDATED w/ follow-up

It's because of dat arse.

I don't understand why you didn't just answer and ask what they wanted? Especially if you were being repeatedly called. Can you not afford a 30 second collect call? For all you know it's a guy trying to get in touch with someone and the # he as is a digit off.

I was asking a serious question

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I was asking a serious question

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It's a scam built around taking advantage of people who think like you. Look for the link on the first page to read about it.

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It's a scam built around taking advantage of people who think like you. Look for the link on the first page to read about it.

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Interesting, I had never heard of that. I get trying to trick people into forwarding their calls so whoever they are trying to reach doesn't get charged. I don't get collect calling just to rack up some random persons phone bill. Must be some bored prisoners

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Another scam occurs when victims accept a collect call from an inmate and then follow then inmate's request to make another call on their behalf

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Someone would have to be an idiot to fall for this. "sure random prisoner, I'll play operator for you and transfer you right over"

Here's an explanation of how they can make illegal outgoing calls on PBX systems.

1) Use your 800 service, get outgoing dial tone and place free calls (free for them).

2) Access your voice mail, guess your password, and then make free calls.

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What is Telecom Fraud? Telecommunications fraud generally involves a third party making long-distance calls at the expense of a business. Forms of fraud involve: PBX Fraud (DISA) The majority of recent fraud cases have occurred around Private Branch Exchange (PBX) systems, by direct inward system access (DISA). Intruders gain access to businesses that use a PBX phone/voicemail system and use system commands such as an 800 number or other access number to gain a dial tone. They place unlimited long-distance calls directly through these lines for unscrupulous operators reselling long-distance at a profit. These calls appear no different to the service or equipment providers than any other call originating from that business. Voicemail Fraud Voicemail fraud is the most prevalent type of fraud and the most significant threat to businesses that use a Private Branch Exchange (PBX) phone system or voicemail. An unauthorized third party can gain access to a business's phone system and place long-distance calls directly through these lines. They gain access most commonly through voicemail menus protected with only simple passwords (1111, 2222, 1234, etc.) or unchanged factory default passwords. Once inside your system, an unauthorized third party can use the system commands to gain a dial tone and place calls that appear no different to your service or equipment provider than any other call originating from your business. Having a good password management policy and practice is a strong start towards protection.

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