One-ring (Wangiri) scams

Updated 2026-05-02

'Wangiri' is Japanese for 'one ring and cut'. Fraudsters call from international or premium-rate numbers, hang up after one ring, and rely on curiosity. If you call back, you're billed at high per-minute rates while an automated voice or hold music wastes your time.

Common Wangiri country codes

Look out for calls from +232 (Sierra Leone), +252 (Somalia), +371 (Latvia), +675 (Papua New Guinea), and +247 (Ascension Island). Most UK users have no legitimate reason to receive calls from these regions.

Why your number was targeted

Wangiri campaigns dial sequentially through ranges. There's nothing personal about it — your number wasn't 'leaked', it was just next on the list.

Red flags

  • Single ring with no voicemail
  • International prefix you don't recognise
  • Call comes in the middle of the night

What to do

  1. Do not call back.
  2. Block the number in your phone's settings.
  3. Run the number through WhoCalledMe.ai to confirm and warn others.
  4. Report repeat offenders to your mobile provider.

Frequently asked questions

How much can a return call cost?

Premium international lines can charge £4–£20 per minute, with hidden 'connection fees' on top. A single curious callback can cost more than a phone bill.