Is the 90# or 09# Phone Call Scam Possible?
The 90#, 09#, #90 or #09 scam is only possible with certain types of vulnerable business phone systems that use PBX(private branch exchange) or PBAX(private automatic branch exchange) configurations. But, it is not possible on mobile devices, residential landlines or newer PBX systems.
Such type of PBX or PBAX configuration are mostly used by businesses, hospitals, government and private organizations. In such PBX system configurations, pressing 9 is a standard signal to connect to an outside line through call forwarding, so when you dial #09 or #90, the scammer gains access to the line and can exploit the phone line in any unfair means. But, if you enter either 90# or 09#, this will allow these scammers to use your phone to make long distance calls.
Such business phone systems are advised to disallow call transfers to these numbers and must be trained to handle such scammers. Mentioned in the reference section are definite guidelines from FCC to avoid such scams.
Therefore, mobile phone users are NOT vulnerable to any such scams, but yes, one should always avoid call activity from strangers as a safety measure.
Below are some hoaxes or fake-news that have been circulating on the internet for a couple of years now, about the #90 or #09 scam. Online users are advised not to share or follow the instructions in them.
The #90 or #09 Hoaxes or Fake-News
Don’t Press
#90 or #09
on your Mobile when asked by any caller.
It’s a New Trick of Terrorists to access your SIM card, Make calls at your expense and frame you as a criminal.
Forward this message to as many friends as U can, to stop it.
Dear All,If you receive a phone call on your mobile from any person, saying that, he or she is a company engineer, or telling that they’re checking your mobile line, and you have to press # 90 or #09 or any other number. End this call immediately without pressing any numbers.
There is a fraud company using a device that once you press #90 or #09 they can access your “SIM” card and make calls at your expense. Forward this message to as many friends as you can, to stop it.All mobile users pay attention if you receive a phone call and your mobile phone displays (XALAN) on the screen don’t answer the call, END THE CALL IMMEDIATELY, if you answer the call, your phone will be infected by a virus.
This virus will erase all IMEI and IMSI information from both your phone and your SIM card, which will make your phone unable to connect with the telephone network. You will have to buy a new phone. This information has been confirmed by both Motorola and Nokia.PLEASE FORWARD THIS PIECE OF INFORMATION TO ALL YOUR FRIENDS HAVING A MOBILE.
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Note: Some of the information in samples on this website may have been impersonated or spoofed.