How to Avoid Cell Phone Ringtone Scams

Everyone wants the newest and coolest ringtones for their cell phones. Unfortunately getting those ringtones has become a dangerous business-there are numerous companies out there waiting to scam people when they get a new ringtone.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

1. Avoid free ringtone websites. When you grab a ringtone from these sites cyber-hackers can attach a virus with them. These viruses can steal any personal information on your phone including contacts and pictures.

2. Stay away from peer-to-peer ringtone sharing sites. While free ringtones are offered here, you're again setting yourself up to get scammed. Many hackers target these types of websites to install viruses on your phone.

3. Be wary of free ringtone commercials. According to these ads all you have to do is send a text to a certain number then you have unlimited free ringtones. What they don't mention is that sending that text usually signs you up for their subscription service which will cost you $8 to $10 per month.

4. Dodge the subscription service if given the option. As mentioned in Step 3 sometimes subscribing is automatic. If it isn't, stay away from anything where you have to enter your phone number or address.

5. Read the fine print. A deal too good to be true usually is. Don't be impulsive and sign up for anything before you've had a chance to review all the details. Know what you're getting and what you'll be paying for the service.

6. Know the privacy policy. Read it before you give out any personal information. Know what this company plans to do with that information and then decide if you want them to have it.

Tips & Warnings

• If you have kids who have cell phones, talk to them about these steps as well. They'll be interested in how to get free ringtones and may unwittingly sign themselves up for something you'll end up paying for. Talk to them about the numerous ringtone scams out there before it's too late.

• If you subscribe to a ringtone service-intentionally or not-it can be incredibly difficult to remove the charges from your bill. Phone companies are not very helpful when it comes to these charges and sometimes can't even tell you where the charge is coming from. If this has happened to you contact the FCC and tell them about the charge and the phone company that won't help remove it.

• Never keep anything too personal-like your credit card information-on your cell phone. Hackers can use that information to steal your identity so keep it confidential.

Resources

• Contact the FCC online to complain about ringtone scams.